Podcast appearances and mentions of phoenix business journal

Send us a textWhat does it mean to lead with care when everything feels like it's on fire? Today's guest brings clarity to one of the most important tools we have in times of crisis: storytelling. Catherine Alonzo is a strategist, storyteller, and CEO of Javelina, a branding and marketing agency helping purpose-driven organizations deepen their social impact. From minimum wage to marriage equality to climate justice, Catherine has helped shape the messages behind some of the most influential movements of our time.In this episode, we explore trauma-informed storytelling as a vital piece of nonprofit communication ethics. Catherine shares insights from her guide, A Guide to Effective Storytelling During a Crisis, including how to balance urgency with humanity, what it means to communicate with clarity during chaos, and how a simple decision tree can help nonprofit leaders speak out with intention. About Catherine AlonzoCatherine Alonzo is on a mission to deepen the social impact of purpose-driven, values-aligned changemakers. She does this through her work with Javelina, a branding and marketing agency that helps social change organizations tell a powerful story that moves their target audiences to action, and through her consulting practice, in which she teaches teams a value-based approach to decision making, team building, storytelling, and leadership so that they can advance their community impact.Recognized for her business leadership by the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, Arizona Business Magazine, Arizona Big Media, and the Phoenix Business Journal, Catherine has been a part of some of the most influential change movements of our time, including increasing minimum wages, advancing marriage equality, widening transportation networks, preserving our climate and environment, and protecting abortion rights.Connect with Catherine Alonzo Effective Storytelling During a Crisis | Javelina.co | Catherinealonzo.com About Host Maria Bryan Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master's Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, Trauma-Informed Coaching, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place. Connect with MariaSpeaking & Training | LinkedIn | Email

What does it take to launch an agency or a brand? Jennifer Kaplan is the founder and CEO of Evolve Public Relations and Marketing, a premier PR agency she established in 2010 to help businesses and professionals authentically tell their stories. With a communications degree from Arizona State University and an entrepreneurial spirit, Jennifer has dedicated her career to elevating brands, building trust, and fostering meaningful connections.Jennifer comes from a family of entrepreneurs, so forging her own path was a no-brainer! As a young professional, she left her steady sales job to take on her first client, boldly launching herself into the rest of her career. In 2005 she co-founded her first PR start-up, PRIME 3, LLC, but later sold her share to branch out and start Evolve! Now, her team works across industries to provide media coverage, influencer engagement, reputation management, and crisis communications.Jennifer's work has garnered widespread acclaim. She's been honored as one of “The Most Influential Women in Arizona Business” by AZ Business Magazine, a “40 Under 40” by Phoenix Business Journal, a “Woman of Achievement” by InBusiness Magazine, and the inaugural Hugh Downs School of Human Communication Alumni of the Year.When Jennifer isn't running her agency, she fills her cup with yoga, cheering on the ASU Sun Devils, and of course, spending time with her family.The PR Podcast is a show about how the news gets made. We talk with great PR people, reporters, and communicators about how the news gets made and strategies for publicity that drive business goals. Host ⁠⁠Jody Fisher⁠⁠ is the founder of Jody Fisher PR and works with clients across the healthcare, higher education, financial services, real estate, entertainment, and non-profit verticals. Join the conversation on ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ at @ThePRPodcast.Evolve PR and Marketing: Website - www.evolveprandmarketing.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/EvolvePRandMarketing/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/evolveprandmarketing/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kaplan-b331948 The PR Podcast: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ThePRPodcast/Twitter - https://x.com/ThePRPodcast1Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theprpodcast_/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theprpodcast?

Veronica Aguilar, an Arizona native and first-generation college student who holds a business degree and an MBA from ASU's W.P. Carey School of Business. She is the Vice President of Recruitment at Teach For America (TFA) and the founder and chair of Young & Empowered Women (Y&E), a nonprofit uplifting diverse female leaders across Arizona. Veronica's personal commitment to TFA's mission to ensure all children receive an excellent education began 13 years ago as a corps member teaching 4th grade. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Veronica launched Young & Empowered Women, which has grown into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving over 200 members—67% women of color and 60% first-generation college graduates. Her leadership has earned honors including Phoenix Business Journal's 40 Under 40 and the 2022 ATHENA Young Professional Award. Veronica is here to talk about how education can really empower women to achieve their full potential.   Calendar of Events   Polo Party @ Turf ParadiseGet your hats out ladies as the biggest horse race of the year is happening. The Kentucky Derby parties are plenty around here but be sure to check out the Polo Party @ Turf Paradise.    Scottsdale Fair & FestivalIf shopping isn't your thing then you can go to WestWorld for the Scottsdale Fair & Festival. Rides, games and the best fair food one can get. Maybe the mom goes to the market and dad gets the rides. Just a thought.    Sunset Serenades & May Music Series Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons are both starting their free concert series this weekend. Be sure to check the lineup for each weekend. Get an opportunity to enjoy some great music and support local by going out to eat there too!    SUBSCRIBE on your Favorite podcast listening app. Find us on IG & FB at Scottsdale Vibes Podcast or check us out on scottsdale vibes dot media. And don't forget that we are now the proud owners of Scottsdale City Lifestyle magazine where you can read about even more of your favorite community.   

Veronica Aguilar, an Arizona native and first-generation college student who holds a business degree and an MBA from ASU's W.P. Carey School of Business. She is the Vice President of Recruitment at Teach For America (TFA) and the founder and chair of Young & Empowered Women (Y&E), a nonprofit uplifting diverse female leaders across Arizona. Veronica's personal commitment to TFA's mission to ensure all children receive an excellent education began 13 years ago as a corps member teaching 4th grade. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Veronica launched Young & Empowered Women, which has grown into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving over 200 members—67% women of color and 60% first-generation college graduates. Her leadership has earned honors including Phoenix Business Journal's 40 Under 40 and the 2022 ATHENA Young Professional Award. Veronica is here to talk about how education can really empower women to achieve their full potential.   Calendar of Events   Polo Party @ Turf ParadiseGet your hats out ladies as the biggest horse race of the year is happening. The Kentucky Derby parties are plenty around here but be sure to check out the Polo Party @ Turf Paradise.    Scottsdale Fair & FestivalIf shopping isn't your thing then you can go to WestWorld for the Scottsdale Fair & Festival. Rides, games and the best fair food one can get. Maybe the mom goes to the market and dad gets the rides. Just a thought.    Sunset Serenades & May Music Series Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons are both starting their free concert series this weekend. Be sure to check the lineup for each weekend. Get an opportunity to enjoy some great music and support local by going out to eat there too!    SUBSCRIBE on your Favorite podcast listening app. Find us on IG & FB at Scottsdale Vibes Podcast or check us out on scottsdale vibes dot media. And don't forget that we are now the proud owners of Scottsdale City Lifestyle magazine where you can read about even more of your favorite community.   

Phoenix Business Journal Editor in Chief Greg Barr breaks down his story on the Nikola Corporation getting ready to formally delist from Nasdaq after filing for bankruptcy and putting in a WARN notice to fire its employees.

Established in 2022, The Arizona Motion Picture Production Program was created through House Bill 2156 with support from both Democrats and Republicans. The program is authorized to award up to $125 million in credits for eligible film productions. Mignon Gould is the Associate Editor for Phoenix Business Journal and talks to us the potential value of making films in Arizona. 

Martha Picciao is a wife, mother of 3 boys, real estate investor and the Founder and CEO of Whiz Kidz Preschools, a chain of childcare centers in the Phoenix area. It was her dream to build a business she was passionate about while raising her boys in tow.  Martha is a dynamic and motivating leader, podcaster and business coach. Her greatest and biggest “why” are her own 3 children and teaching, both littles and other entrepreneurs and leaders. She enjoys cooking, hiking and biking, traveling around the world, boating on the lake with her family and morning workouts. If she's not mentoring staff, coaching entrepreneurs or working on a new real estate project, she's spending time with her family or on a sideline of some sort. She strives to make an impact in her community through impact giving and hosting church city group for business women. She is a graduate of Arizona State CumLaude with her BA in Education and a former first grade teacher. She began her home preschool that has since expanded to 6 preschool centers in the Phoenix area, with more expansions on the horizon, employs over 175 staff members, and serves over 600 families. Whiz Kidz has been voted best childcare 5 years in a row and has earned a spot on the Inc 5000 4 years in a row, and Martha was peer nominated by Phoenix Business Journal in 2021 Community Impact for their service through the pandemic and in 2022 “Most Admired Leaders” Award.  She is actively involved in the community, serving on several boards like Entrepreneurs Organization “EO”, volunteers at her kids' schools, and serves through hospitality. Faith is her source of strength and fundamental to lead and serve others.   In this episode, Karen and Martha discuss: Success Story of Martha Commit to Get Leads Have a strong online presence that positions you as different from everyone else. Look at your messaging, provide something of value, and stand out. Consult to Sell As an entrepreneur, focus on what your strengths are, double down on that, and then fill the gaps with delegation. This will allow everyone to thrive in their strengths and allow for a more focused and cohesive team. Connect to Build and Grow Hone in on what you're good at, document everything for scalability, and make sure your messaging matches your goals, mission, vision, and purpose. Success Thinking, Activities and Vision We all have a story; we all have a journey. The more we share, the more we can motivate someone else. Listen to and hear other people's stories to find motivation and shift your mindset. Sweet Spot of Success   "I've learned to celebrate the little and big wins, and then I want to continue to dream bigger. I never want to feel like I've arrived. And so it's really thinking big, and who do I need to become." - Martha Picciao    *5 Minute Success - Listener Giveaway* Go to https://marthapicciao.com/#down to receive your FREE Tame the Chaos, Master Your Time download!   Connect with Martha Picciao: Website: marthapicciao.com Website: whizkidzpreschool.com The Team with Martha Podcast: marthapicciao.com/podcast LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/martha-picciao-01a9ab14b Instagram: instagram.com/TheTeawithMartha Instagram: instagram.com/whizkidzpreschool Instagram: instagram.com/childcare_academy Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561171884190     About the Podcast Join host Karen Briscoe each month to learn how you can achieve success at a higher level by investing just 5 minutes a day! Tune in to hear powerful, inspirational success stories and expert insights from entrepreneurs, business owners, industry leaders, and real estate agents that will transform your business and life. Karen shares a-ha moments that have shaped her career and discusses key concepts from her book Real Estate Success in 5 Minutes a Day: Secrets of a Top Agent Revealed.   Here's to your success in business and in life!   Connect with Karen Briscoe: Facebook: 5MinuteSuccess Website: 5MinuteSuccess.com Email: Karen@5MinuteSuccess.com   5 Minute Success Links Learn more about Karen's book, Real Estate Success in 5 Minutes a Day Karen also recommends Moira Lethbridge's book "Savvy Woman in 5 Minutes a Day" Subscribe to 5 Minute Success Podcast   Spread the love and share the secrets of 5 Minute Success with your friends and colleagues!     Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Send us a textLooking at getting into compounding? Don't just dabble in it, go all in.That's the theme of this week's episode of The Bottom Line Pharmacy Podcast!Scotty Sykes, CPA, CFP and Marketing guru Austin Murray of Sykes & Company, P.A. sat down with Dr. Kevin Borg PharmD, America's Pharmacist and owner of Potters House Apothecary and Prescott Compounding Pharmacy to discuss:The rise of GLP-1 compoundingChallenges faced with regulatory complianceImportance of quality and accounting in pharmacy operationsStay up to date on new episodes by liking and subscribing!Click below for the transcript:  (insert transcript link) More about our guest:  Dr. Kevin Borg, PharmD, FIACP, FACA, earned his doctorate in pharmacy at Midwestern University College of Pharmacy – Glendale, Arizona in 2001. As a pharmacy student, he was a member of the Rho Chi Honor Society and received many awards, including the Pfizer Outstanding Leadership Award and the Roche Pharmacy Communications Award. As an alumnus, Kevin was presented with the prestigious Littlejohn Award by Midwestern University, which honors the values of service, caring, and commitment to the industry. Dr. Borg started his career in retail pharmacy and later became the founding pharmacist-in-charge for a mail-order pharmacy specializing in the care of injured workers.In April of 2009, he realized his lifetime goal and opened Potter's House Apothecary in Peoria, Arizona, as President and CEO. This PCAB accredited compounding–only pharmacy business model has allowed Kevin to pursue his passion of assisting patients who present unique treatment needs. In April of 2021, Kevin purchased Prescott Compounding Pharmacy in Prescott, Arizona. He relocated the pharmacy and built another state-of-the-art compounding facility to meet current industry regulations and better serve the needs of the community.In 2014, Potter's House Apothecary was recognized for three local business awards, including the ASU W.P. Carey School of Business Spirit of Enterprise for Excellence in Entrepreneurship as a finalist. Phoenix Business Journal recognized Potter's House Apothecary as one of the Top 10 Best Places to Work for Small Businesses and as one of the Top 15 Fastest Growing Businesses in Arizona. Potter's House Apothecary also serves as a teaching pharmacy by precepting interns on a monthly basis to further the art and profession of compounding. The level of personal and community satisfaction can only be described as phenomenal!Stay connected with Dr. Kevin Borg, PharmD:Kevin Borg LinkedInPotters House Apothecary WebsitePrescott Compounding Pharmacy WebsitePotters House Apothecary InstagramPotters House Apothecary LinkedInStay connected with us:Facebook Twitter (X) LinkedIn InstagramMore resources about this topic:Podcast – Driving Independent Pharmacy Profitability in 2025Podcast – Legal Updates Impa

The Valley has a high vacancy rate despite its housing shortage. Why? And how much do interest rates play a role? Angela Gonzales with Phoenix Business Journal explains. 

In this two-part episode, we're joined by the incredible Ira Rosen, co-founder of Mojo Global, a leader in LinkedIn products and training platforms. With over 50 years of experience in business, persuasion, and mindset, Ira has helped tens of thousands of entrepreneurs transform their businesses—and his achievements earned him Marketer of the Yearfrom the Phoenix Business Journal.Ira's journey is nothing short of remarkable: from revolutionizing the medical weight management industry in the '90s to owning car and motorcycle franchises in the '80s, and even competing as a member of the U.S. Olympic Wrestling Team. He's also run over 30 marathons and logged more than 100,000 miles—and hasn't missed a single day working out!In this episode, Ira shares how he's worked with legends like Grant Cardone, John Maxwell, and Mark Cuban. He'll walk us through his strategies for staying disciplined, filling calendars, and achieving massive goals. Get ready to discover the mindset secrets that have fueled his success and how you can use them to level up your life and business.Don't miss this inspiring conversation—grab your notebook and let's dive in!

Are we making progress in our housing shortage? Phoenix Business Journal Senior Reporter Angela Gonzales joins us to talk about the latest developments in housing around the Valley. 

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a dream into a thriving community of support and empowerment?Imagine a place where small businesses flourish, women of all ages gather to share knowledge, and passion drives innovation. Creating such a space is no small feat—it demands vision, resilience, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. For Latina entrepreneurs, these spaces are vital for fostering connection, collaboration, and growth, transforming not only individual lives but entire communities.Stephanie Vasquez is an accomplished Latina business leader, serial entrepreneur, and business coach whose impressive career is rooted in a passion for community empowerment and innovation. As an Arizona State University graduate, she has achieved remarkable milestones, including founding the non-profit E.L.L.A., running the successful Fair Trade Café for 17 years, and championing the Phoenix community. Stephanie's contributions have garnered recognition from prestigious organizations such as Forbes, Los Suns, Cox, Phoenix Business Journal, and the City of Phoenix, among others. Additionally, she shares her expertise as a mentor and instructor for ASU's Prepped program, supporting aspiring food entrepreneurs in their journeys.Tune in to Episode 209 of Amiga, Handle Your Shit, as Stephanie Vasquez shares her journey of founding the Amor Collective, an incubator space that brings Latina-owned businesses together to grow and thrive. From rotating business opportunities to creating multigenerational spaces for learning and fun, Stephanie reveals her innovative approach to fostering community and supporting local talent. She also opens up about her philosophy of staying ready for whatever opportunities come her way and the importance of letting passion and purpose lead the way.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Build community through passion and shared purpose.Success requires grit, not just a great idea.Stay ready for opportunities; preparation meets opportunity.Empower others by creating spaces for growth.Support local Latina-owned businesses with your dollars.Let go of control; trust the journey.Connect With Stephanie Vasquez:InstagramFair Trade CafeAmor Collective Let's Connect!WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInJackie Tapia Arbonne website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christina Spicer is the co-CEO of Girl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council. Spicer is a leader who has devoted two decades of her career to directing critical youth initiatives throughout the community. After graduating from Arizona State with a degree in communications, she joined notMYkid. Shortly after earning her master's degree from Arizona State, she joined Teach for America, where she led the development team. Spicer is also founder of CAMEO, a women's mentorship organization. She serves on local boards and has received several awards, including Phoenix Business Journal's 40 Under 40 Award. She was named a Diverse Business Leader to Watch and the Phoenix Mercury's Believe in Women award.Watch the full episode on the MAC & Bleu Youtube Channel - https://youtu.be/ja7ROPYaKeMGirl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council Website: https://www.girlscoutsaz.org/Christina Spicer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christina_collettaspicerGirl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gsacpc/Christina Spicer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-spicer-5612781b/Girl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/girl-scouts---arizona-cactus-pine-council/Girl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council X: https://twitter.com/GSACPCGirl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gsacpc/MAC & Bleu, your go-to podcast for the innovative minds shaping our nation's future. Our topics are not only vast but advanced and forward looking, as we explore emerging trends in blockchain, AI, the Metaverse, and both virtual and augmented reality within the construction, business and entrepreneur market segments. Our conversations are as diverse as they are enlightening, traversing not just the topics of economic development, supply chains, diverse market sectors, and celebrate the rich diversity underpinning each industry. We also dive into the intricate interplay between local politics and business, highlighting the far-reaching impact of political decisions on different market segments. Be sure to subscribe to the MAC & Bleu Youtube Channel About the Host - JJ Levenske - President & Co-Founder of Bleuwave General ContractingJJ Levenske is a seasoned construction executive with over 30 years of experience in the commercial & industrial sectors. From pre-construction services to complex quality controls and close-outs, he brings a commitment to delivering the highest levels of professionalism and customer service. J.J.'s dedication to construction has allowed him to become an industry expert which he aims to share with customers and investors alike.

Armando Contreras is the National president and CEO of United Cerebral Palsy Inc. The organization has 55 affiliates, 53 of which are here in the United States and two are in Canada. Armando grew up in East Los Angeles and then attended college at the University of Southern California where he obtained a degree in Business Administration. Later he secured a Master's degree in Divinity from the University of San Francisco.   Armando has worked both in the for profit world as well as for and with several nonprofit organizations. He tells us about all his life adventures including being a cancer survivor now for ten years.   Mr. Contreras and I have a great discussion about his vision for UCP which this year is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Along the way, UCP expanded services beyond just working with persons with Cerebral Palsy. As he explains, the same kinds of services required by people with CP also apply to persons with Downs and Autism.   I hope what Armando discusses with me inspires you as much as it did me. Please let me know what you think.     About the Guest:   Armando A. Contreras is the President and CEO of the Washington, D.C. and Vienna, Virginia-based United Cerebral Palsy Inc., one of the nation's leading health associations providing vital services and advocating for the inclusion of people living with neurodevelopmental disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, autism, and Down syndrome via its 55 affiliates (53 in the U.S. and two in Canada).   A native of Los Angeles, Armando's professional career includes having served as CEO of UCP of Central Arizona, President and CEO of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC), Director of the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, and Executive Director of the Council on Small Business under former Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano.   He was featured in Activator Magazine's March 2021 issue (“A Servant Leader's Faithful Journey”). In November 2016, Arizona Business Magazine recognized him as a top CEO in the nonprofit health sector. In 2015, Armando was named one of the most Influential Minority Business Leaders in Arizona. He was also the featured CEO in the December 2013 issue of Arizona Business Magazine, and the Phoenix Business Journal awarded him a Champions in Diversity award in 2012. Armando was a special guest on The Hill newspaper's virtual Disability Summit, featuring policymakers, business and nonprofit leaders discussing ways to increase employment across the disability community.   Armando attended the Harvard School of Business Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management program. In May 2001, he was honored to meet with President George W. Bush to discuss faith-based and community initiatives during a White House gathering on the topic.   Today, Armando serves on the Board of SourceAmerica. He is a former member of the Bishop's Finance Committee of the Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, and he recently completed a term serving as a member of the Board of Directors of the Kino Border Initiative, a binational organization that promotes U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policies that affirm the dignity of the human person.   Armando earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Southern California and a master's degree in theology from the University of San Francisco. He also received certificates from the Indiana University School of Philanthropy and Harvard University.   He and his wife, Norma Contreras, live in Phoenix, where they are active in the community, particularly contributing their time and talents to faith-based social justice issues. The couple has three adult children and a grandson with another grandson on the way.       About the Host:   Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog.   Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards.   https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/   accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/   https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/       Thanks for listening!   Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!   Subscribe to the podcast   If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset .   Leave us an Apple Podcasts review   Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.       Transcription Notes:   Michael Hingson ** 00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us.   Michael Hingson ** 01:21 Welcome to another edition of unstoppable mindset where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet, and I won't go through all that again, it's inclusion because that means we include disabilities. Diversity typically doesn't, but the unexpected is what we get to deal with a lot as well. It's all fun, and we're glad that you're able to be here with us, wherever you happen to be. Our guest today is Armando Contreras, who is the president of United Cerebral Palsy, Inc, and I'm really anxious to hear more about that keeps keeps him, and I think a lot of us busy, and there's a lot of good stories and very relevant things to talk about regarding that. So let's get to it, Armando, I want to thank you and really appreciate you being here. Michael,   Armando Contreras ** 02:06 it's such a pleasure, and really it's an honor that I can be here on your show. So thank you for the kind invitation. Well, you   Michael Hingson ** 02:15 are. You're certainly most welcome, and Armando is one of those people who came to us again because of Sheldon Lewis here at accessibe, and he's he's keeping us busy, which is a good thing, and he's probably working on getting Armando to use accessibe, unless you already are with UCP. I haven't checked the website lately. Well, we   Armando Contreras ** 02:33 have. So we've already put in that, I believe, a plugin, and some of our affiliates are actually using accessibe as well,   Michael Hingson ** 02:43 which is cool, and it does a lot to help, which is, of course, what it's all about. Because accessibe, using AI, is able to do a lot of the work with the AI widget, not all, but a lot that needs to be done. So it's really great that you guys are using it, and I appreciate that and thank you for it, or on behalf of all of us at accessibe, yeah,   Armando Contreras ** 03:04 you're welcome. Well,   Michael Hingson ** 03:06 why don't we start as I love to do at the beginning? Why don't tell us a little bit about kind of the early Armando growing up and all that sort of stuff? Yes, so might as well,   Armando Contreras ** 03:18 yeah, the early Armando, growing up, was in East Los Angeles, in East LA so my father had a disability for most of his life. He had a he was in a car accident, and the doctors had said he would never work again. And right about that time when he had that car accident. I was born. I was the first, the oldest of three and my brother Louis and my sister Elizabeth. So life really changed for him, because he was middle class entrepreneur in Mexico, while he was American citizen. Then when he married my mom, then they moved over to Los Angeles, and eventually East Los Angeles, and that's where I grew up. I grew up pretty much in, you can say, in poverty. And while we were in a neighborhood called in Barrio, it's just a neighborhood of of, really, for the most part, a lot of good people. Our neighbors were fantastic, and we knew each other. So that was kind of like the beginning of many years of really, you know, experiencing disabilities with my dad and seeing what he had gone through. And it was a it was a tough, really. It was a tough. It was tough growing up, let me put it to you that way, for for many reasons. So then later, I got involved with the Catholic Church, Saint Lucy. Catholic Church in Los Angeles or a small town called City terrace, and that kind of that really changed a lot for me, as far as getting involved with community issues, getting involved in helping people, getting involved in connecting with the kind of the local issues that were happening in the city of Los Angeles, because those priests, those Catholic priests, were very involved in that, in ministries, and they went outside of the ministries to help community members, regardless if they were Catholic or not, what. And prior to that, I got involved as a musician. So I was a trumpet player, and I played trumpet at St Lucy's church for about 23 years. But then that that did something, something of sort of a miracle for me, because when I applied after going to a junior college in Los Angeles College, and then I applied to a dream university, USC, so the University of Southern California, and I think one of the big reasons that I got in was because of my community involvement, so that that led to a full scholarship, and that was quite the blessing for me, because there was no way that that we can afford me going to a private university. So, you know, that's kind of like, in the nutshell, my my upbringing, otherwise I would be here three days, you know,   Michael Hingson ** 06:30 yeah, what year? What years were you at USC,   Armando Contreras ** 06:34 I was there. I was there in 8085 through 87 ish, around that time? Yeah, around that that time? Yeah, I graduated in 87   Michael Hingson ** 06:46 that's that's much beyond my favorite USC football game, which was, how was it? I think Notre Dame was leading SC 24 to nothing at the end of the first half. You know, the game, I can tell by the end, it was 55 to 24 USC, which is the way it should be.   Armando Contreras ** 07:07 You know, SC had his great moments, and sc has had their challenging moments. Has Yeah. So, you know, last year, it could have been a better year for us. But, you know, we look to the future. And like I always say, don't fight on. So fight on   Michael Hingson ** 07:23 is right. My wife did her graduate work at SC I've never been to a football game there or anywhere, and one of these days, I'd love to go, but she just passed away in November of 2022 we were married for 40 years, but I've already been an SC fan before I married her, and one of my favorite SC stories is that the day we got married, we arrived at the church, and it was supposed to be a wedding that would pack the church. A lot of people wanted to come and see us get together, but the wedding was supposed to start at four o'clock, and like the church was less than half full on about 412 suddenly the doors opened, and this whole crowd came in, and the wedding went forward, only about 15 minutes late. Later, we tried to find out what it was that kept people away for so long. And what we heard was everyone was in their cars waiting for the end of the USC Notre Dame game. And since SC one, it was that God clearly was on our side.   Armando Contreras ** 08:25 I love that. Yeah, it's a great story. And my my sister, condolences for loss.   Michael Hingson ** 08:31 Well, thank you. You know she her body was just slowing down. She was in a wheelchair her whole life, and just in 2022, things were kind of catching up. And as I say, the spirit tends to move ahead of the body sometimes, and that's what happened. But she's watching somewhere, and if I misbehave, I'll hear about it. I'm not at all worried I'm going to try to be a good kid. But that's great that she did go to USC, and you said something else. I think that's really interesting to me, and that is that where you grew up, people were very nice and very friendly. And I think that is so often true, and a lot of times people stray into some of these areas and they think it's going to be horrible, and they they look for the worst, and they find it because they're not looking for the best. They're not looking to try to find friendly people and and it's so unfortunate that too many, too many times, we don't really look for the best in people. And unfortunately, then it comes out.   Armando Contreras ** 09:34 Well, you know, I I could only say great things about East LA and the barrio that I, that I grew up in, were there elements in there? Of course, sure you were, we were about a block away from from the gang activity, and you just had a choice, right? And thanks to my parents that were super strict, they didn't, they didn't allow me to make those kind of choices when I was younger. You know. To join the gangs, but that element was in front of you, you know, and some of them, some of the folks I still know today, some of them that were in gangs and stuff, now they've settled down. They have families, but I just have to say that there was a sense of community there where I grew up, even, even, or despite the elements that were around us. So yes, do I hear the negativity when they somebody mentions East Los Angeles? Yes, but I could, I have to say that even though we grew up in poverty and even though there was a lot of challenges for us as a family, I I really cherish the neighbors that were there. When I remember that the kind of those gatherings, we had nothing. So there was no we played, you know, with just a regular basketball or something. There was no communication via a cell phone or anything like that. Yeah. So, you know, I have only good things to say. And part of my upbringing there today, I realized that wow, I was I was working on a strategic plan without even knowing what a strategic plan was back in the day. Yeah.   Michael Hingson ** 11:17 Do you think that today it's harder, or there's more of that kind of activity, or is it just that people are now having their attention drawn more to it, and again, still, I think all too often deal with it in such a negative way. But do you think it's worse than it was?   Armando Contreras ** 11:36 I mean, if we're talking about, if we're talking about gang activity. I mean that still, I think, is just as prominent that today, unfortunately, than what it was this as it was back. You know, when I grew up in the night, in the 60s, I believe that leaders, community leaders, our representatives, really have to invest into communities, invest in education, invest in in jobs, right? Because people, naturally, some of them, will start looking for a way of making a living, and they may choose a different route. In addition to that, gangs and they become a family. So, you know, parents do need to, you know, also be aware of what their kids are doing, and support them and and nurture them and show them love, right? And because, if you really get to the bottom of it, and you start speaking to a gang member, she or he, there's underlining problems, and maybe comes from family. You know, there could be so many things that are happening, but I truly have a vision that that someday there's going to be more funds invested into communities like East Los Angeles, because a lot of great people come out of there, and I'm not talking about myself, but there's just a lot of good people, good hearted people, that really like to help their neighbor and others. When   Michael Hingson ** 13:10 I was selling in New York, when still living in California, and would go back and spend days at a time, I stayed at a particular hotel in midtown Manhattan, Near Time Square, and if I went out at night, every so often, somebody would come up and he would say, I'm one of the guardian angels. You're familiar with them? Yes. And he said, I'm with guardian angels. I want to walk with you. And I said, you know, you don't need to. And he said, I want to. And I didn't mind, but what I always felt and and experienced was if I treated people right, if I treated people like people, if I was I was treated like someone, and I didn't really need to fear any of the other kinds of things. Now, I'm sure there were crazies around, but in general, I really do think that if we would be a little bit more open to just accepting and not fear so much those things that we don't understand, or those kinds of communities that we're not as knowledgeable about, and I'm not so much thinking of the gangs, but just all the other communities, like East LA and watts and so on, we would be a whole lot better off, and we would learn to get along with people better.   Armando Contreras ** 14:31 I totally agree with that. I think it's building relationships, right, and getting to help and getting to know, you know, folks from different ethnicities, people with different abilities, right? It all comes together. Here is that, knowing them, respecting them, listening for understanding, and then building a friendship, right? And collaborating together. Um. For the betterment of humanity. That's what I believe, where it's at, and everybody has an opportunity to do that.   Michael Hingson ** 15:08 Yeah, and I just think that we, we, we somehow also need to get the politics out of providing the funds. And I don't know, it's just people have locked themselves into some very hard political decisions sometimes that that don't help the process at all.   Armando Contreras ** 15:26 Yeah? Michael, so yes, yes. Part of it is yes, taking out the politics, but the other part of it is bringing in the politics right? Is letting our our representatives, our public officials, and on the local level, on the municipality level, state level, on the federal level, to bring them in and know what the issues are, because we're all part of the fabric of society. Yeah, all somehow we do give, and we do contribute, and I don't, I don't care what ethnicity, what religion you are, if you if you have a disability, if you don't have a disability, we're all part of the society, and I believe that our representatives really need to know that and how we contribute in a very big way.   Michael Hingson ** 16:16 I think the biggest part is they need to be open to listening to hear that some do, some don't. And I am a firm believer in the fact that over time, all the issues that we need to deal with will get dealt with.   Armando Contreras ** 16:30 I believe so too, and I think those that those that don't listen to communities, for whatever reason it is that eventually somebody in their family or them may end up in that situation themselves, and then, you know, they'll begin to have that lived experience. But while they've had a chance to make a difference, and if they ignore it, then there was a window of opportunity for them to do something.   Michael Hingson ** 17:01 Yeah, well, and, and if they choose to ignore that again, I believe that things will will happen to deal with that, whatever it is, and hopefully it it doesn't a negative, horrible thing that has to happen to make them realize it. But I think in some cases, that has been what has occurred. But I have a lot of faith in the human race. Yes, so do I. Well, so you, what was your degree in from USC?   Armando Contreras ** 17:29 It was in business administration.   Michael Hingson ** 17:32 Ah. And did you go to any football games?   Armando Contreras ** 17:35 I did, yeah, good   Michael Hingson ** 17:36 for you. My wife did too. Yeah.   Armando Contreras ** 17:38 And, and most recently, most recently, I've gone to the last two USC UCLA games. So last year, it was great. It was fantastic. We were at the Rose Bowl at, you know, in UCLA territory this year, not so good. We were so good, not so good. We were at home at the Coliseum. And, you know, it didn't, it didn't work at a while, but it was a fun game. I   Michael Hingson ** 18:04 don't know, what do you think of the coach?   Armando Contreras ** 18:07 Um, I think that he's good, and I think that he will continue to be successful this year, this next year. I think it will be better this year. Yeah, I think so. And they got this young, this young man that showed up at the at the bowl game. I'm trying to remember Miller. I think it was Miller, and it was his name, and he showed up. He was a he, he did a fantastic job. And I do see a great future for him at USC and perhaps in in the in the NFL.   Michael Hingson ** 18:40 Well, it'll be fun. I know they got a new defensive coordinator and that they needed, so we'll, we'll see how it goes. But we won't bore everyone with football and our likes, but it's nevertheless, it's part of the world. So there you go, but then you went on to the University of San Francisco, right?   Armando Contreras ** 19:01 I did. So that was a few years later, and I graduated, I believe, in 2004 and I it was, it was something that drew me, and it was an opportunity for me to get a degree in Theology at a Jesuit university. So at that time, I was working for a faith based Catholic organization, a national organization called the National Catholic council for Hispanic ministry. And what we looked at overall in the United States were the issues of upper mobility for Hispanic Catholics for immigrants, or for our sisters and brothers that are immigrants, the issues that are happening with Hispanic families, education was a huge thing. You know, how do we how do we move, you know, our children that from, you know, grammar school to. Catholic high schools and perhaps Catholic universities were, yeah, unfortunate. Unfortunately, I have to say, is that there's not a whole lot of access, and we're the backbone of the Catholic Church, right? Because it's so expensive. So those were the things that that we were part of, and one of the opportunities that came about was attending the University of San Francisco and and I received, you know, I earned a degree in theology, master's degree, yes,   Michael Hingson ** 20:32 well, let's go back a little bit. So you graduated from SC then what did you do?   Armando Contreras ** 20:37 Well, then I had several jobs after that. I worked for a nonprofit in Los Angeles that helped people get jobs. And then after that, I believe, I went into a construction company as a contract administrator. I was here for maybe a year and a half or so, and then I went on for whatever reason I was interested in real estate. So then I worked for a corporation that did mortgage loans. And in that I met a gentleman who had his own real estate company, and then we decided to start our own real estate company. So I did that for about seven, seven years, and then I I got hired to work with this nonprofit, the National Catholic council that I just mentioned a little bit ago. I was there for about 10 and a half years. So I had I had a chance to travel around the nation and to meet with Hispanic Catholic leaders, lay leaders. I got to meet with religious orders of men and women from Jesuits, Franciscans, many other different orders. So it was, it was really a insightful time for me in those 10 and a half years about our church. And then after that, we moved from Los Angeles to Phoenix. And shortly after that, I got hired. Let's see here. I'm trying to remember the I got hired by governor Janet Napolitano, but I was her small business advocate, and in about 11 months, I moved into being a deputy director of a one of her departments, the Arizona register of contractors, and soon after that, I was on her cabinet. So I was honored to serve under Janet Napolitano when she moved to Washington, DC, because President Barack Obama appointed her as Secretary of Homeland Security. Then I moved on to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, here Arizona, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. And then about a year later, then that's where I had folks come to me and said, there's an organization here that is the United Cerebral Palsy association of central Arizona. And I said, Well, I'm going to maybe put the word out and see who might be interested in that position, which was a CEO position. And then they said, No, we're looking for somebody like you. So to make a long story short, I got hired. And that was really a beginning of of a lot of things. I got hired not because I had the clinical background, or the researcher background, or that I had been involved with disabilities. I got hired so then I can take take that organization to another level, where they wanted to increase the revenues, they wanted to increase their brand awareness. They wanted to make sure that we had stronger collaborations in the community in Arizona, in in Phoenix, and that's why I got hired, to make sure that we enhance that to benefit the children and adults that we were serving.   Michael Hingson ** 24:05 Well. So what do you think about the differences since you've been in a position to have done both working in the for profit corporate kind of world, as opposed to working in the the nonprofit sector? That's,   Armando Contreras ** 24:21 that's Michael. That's a really interesting question, because there are similarities,   Michael Hingson ** 24:27 I know, and I've done the same thing. I've worked for both as well. Well,   Armando Contreras ** 24:31 look, you know, I'm working for a nonprofit, and those that are going to be listening to this, that are CEOs are working in development for both for profits and nonprofits. There's not a whole there's not a big difference there. Because we strive to be sustainable, like a for profit. We strive to look at years to come, because we want to be around and help people in the next 1015, 75, Years which we we're celebrating this year, our 75th anniversary. So part of our responsibility as a leader, as a president and CEO, is really looking beyond the years that you're going to be there. You can, you can serve for one year, 10 years, 20 years, 30 years. But really the i i truly believe that the test is, once you leave, will that organization continue to survive because of what you put together? So to answer your question, a lot of similarities between a for profit and a non profit. However, at the end of the day, the mission for us is to not make a profit, but to be sustainable so we can continue our life saving work   Michael Hingson ** 25:49 and for not, not for profits. Nonprofits generally tend to work more in an arena where they're trying to make a social difference. And although they're they're still selling products. The products are different. They're oftentimes less tangible, although a lot of the services that that they provide, like UCB, UCP provides and so on, end up being very tangible, but still there's there's an intangibility, but still, I agree with you that the reality is that they're very similar. Development is extremely similar to what a for profit company does. And in reality, when you're in development, you're in sales, and when you're in sales, you're in development, it's just that people have come up with two words for the same thing, but they're so similar in what you ultimately are trying to get from them, and ultimately, how you present to people who you want to be your customers or your donors, is so much the same as well.   Armando Contreras ** 27:00 Yeah, I agree with you, Michael, so in development, because I also have a background in fundraising, it's aligning with the folks that have the same vision and that would want to contribute for an impact that's happening in society. So with United Cerebral Palsy and our affiliates are providing direct services to children and adults with cerebral palsy and many other conditions. So there are people that are very, very generous, but I have to say that in the world of philanthropy now, donors are becoming a lot more informed, and they want to make sure that the dollar that they're going to donate, that it's going to go a long way. Yeah, so obviously they're looking at at administrative costs versus your program program costs, right? And that's a good thing. I encourage the philanthropic community to do that, to do their research and to pick those nonprofits in the United States or maybe around the world that are really making a huge impact. Michael, we we serve 100 and approximately 155,000 children and adults on an annual basis, and this is our affiliates that are working day in and day out to provide those services, vital services, life saving services, and services that maybe other organizations don't or people don't want to do. So those are the things that that people that are going to invest their return is really what's happening in the lives of 1000s and hundreds of 1000s of people. Many,   Michael Hingson ** 28:45 many years ago, I remember watching a little bit of a telethon. It was actually on Channel 13 out here, kcop, and it was back in what had to be the early to mid 80s, I think, and it was a telethon put on by the Society for the Prevention of blindness, which I don't even know whether they're around anymore, but at the end of the telethon, they had raised, I think, like $200,000 it was a local, Just independent television station doing it. But what we learned was that 95% of the cost of the telethon went to pay for it, and that the organization only ended up with about 5% of that $200,000 which is, of course, a real problem.   Armando Contreras ** 29:39 It is so like I mentioned before, is that today you're having more informed donors, right, that are looking at that ratio, right? Yeah, how much of their dollar is going to go to actual services, right? Versus cost for putting on a. For putting like you mentioned, a telethon today, there's not a whole lot of telethons going on. Have a million channels, but back in the day, I remember the channels 13, 574, and maybe 11 nine. Yeah, 11 nine. So there was a few more today. What do you have? 234, 100, and then more and all of that. There's other ways that I certainly believe that that can be as impactful and less expensive than the telethons. But sure, you bring up a really good point, is that if you're going to, if you're a donor, if you're a philanthropist, if you really want to have your money change people's lives, they have to do some homework. Yeah, they have to look at that nonprofit and to make sure that 90% of your dollars not going into it, and 90% is not going into it, administrative expenses. It   Michael Hingson ** 30:55 may well be that that 90% works or maybe a little bit less. You're spending a little bit more money on administration, if you can justify it, to say, but look out of that we are able to reach more people and thus get more money. But I do think it's, it's a it's a tight rope.   Armando Contreras ** 31:20 Yeah, I definitely agree with that, that you have to be strategic when you're out fundraising and your your case statement really has to be where it's so compelling that and then showing the data and and and bringing children and adults to tell their story, right of how their lives have been changed. Those are the storytelling is really part, one part, or a major part, of development and fundraising.   Michael Hingson ** 31:56 Well, tell us a little bit about UCP, the history and so on, if you would to inform more people about it.   Armando Contreras ** 32:02 Well, one, you know, I'm, I'm so excited to share with everybody that we're celebrating our 75th anniversary, right? Uh, 75 years of providing vital services, right? 75 years of having our direct service professionals, the folks that are working at home, under the home community based services. We have we have pre Ks, the different therapies that are out there. We have group homes, we have transportation, we have employment. There's so many things that we're bringing to the community. But it started in 1949 right? It started with concerned citizens and concerned parents, that they felt that in that time, which was a totally different world for people with disabilities, that they felt that something more had to happen, that no more can society or the doctors or people in authority can say, would your kids have to go to an institution no matter if they had Down syndrome? Well, maybe autism wasn't. Were so prevalent back then, maybe not as prevalent, but cerebral palsy, spinal bifid, all of that that their kids suddenly were taken away from their home.   Michael Hingson ** 33:22 Well, my parents were told by our doctors that they should send me to a home when it was discovered I was blind, and my parents rejected that, which was very fortunate, but   Armando Contreras ** 33:32 yeah, and good for your parents. And that's how it started, right? I think, I think a lot of nonprofits started in that way, but back in 1949 that's when a group of parents got together and said, we have to do something more right. Then today, we've evolved where we're in the disability world, there's greater access than there was before, there's more inclusion than there was before, right? We're trying at least that used because UCP national and our affiliates, we're trying to help people be more independent, if it's through legislation, research, therapies, everything that we're trying to do. And we're very we're very centric to those issues that are out there, and we're trying to make a huge difference. So what I'm looking at is, I'm looking at another 75 years and that United Cerebral Palsy. One we're trying to in here. Four goals. One is brand awareness. Also let folks know about our 75th year anniversary. But one of the bigger things Michael that is the challenge for us is that United Cerebral Palsy serves children and adults with cerebral palsy and other conditions, so we're trying to bring that message out. And figuring out, how can we let the community know that if your child has Down syndrome autism, that we are there providing vital services for for them as well. The next goal is development, or what we just spoke about, connecting with the philanthropic community, because we, while a lot of our affiliates rely on government funding and reimbursement, I believe that there's another level that we have to engage with, and that's the philanthropic community right. There are millions and millions of dollars. Michael, I go to this to a an event called the heckling event in Orlando, I've been going there for now five years, and those professionals that are working with Planned Giving, some of them will come to me and say that their clients don't know where to give their money to. That's why we're present there, and that's why other profits are there too, as well. Is that we need to educate the community that that you can actually invest in something that's going to bring back this return of investment, but more of a humanity return, and something that's going to be great for society. The other goal that we have is advocacy. So we're known throughout the federal government, the Biden administration, as well as the Trump administration community, communicated with us, especially during COVID So we had communications with the White House. We still do. We're engaged at the Congress and Senate level with various representatives and senators to make sure that they create legislation that's going to be beneficial for our for the for the disability community, and that we don't ever go back to the institutions that that would be their only option. Unfortunately, Michael, today, there's still institutions that exist, not as many as before, but there's still institution the last goal we have is to grow our footprint, not only nationally, but but internationally. So we're having discussions locally, in places that were not present, to grow our footprint, to see how we can collaborate. We're also having, I'm having conversations with people on the global level, like the International cerebral palsy society, like aacpdm, the Academy for cerebral palsy. I've been invited twice, once, well, I got invited last year to the International Congress on cerebral palsy in Mexico City, I got invited again. I was their president, and I gave a speech. And I got invited again this year, in March, I'll be in medida Yucatan at an international congress again, and that brings a lot of awareness for us, brand awareness, and the main thing is really collaboration. So I kind of touched upon some of the some of the goals, Michael, and some of the things that important things and vital things that our affiliates are doing. So if there's, if there's something else that you want me to elaborate, I'd be glad, more than glad to do. So how are   Michael Hingson ** 38:19 you working toward creating more and better brand awareness to the general population?   Armando Contreras ** 38:27 Well, one of the things that we're doing, given that we have this window of opportunity that we're celebrating our 75th year, and that begins in that started in February, and we'll go all the way through January 31 is that one, we have a lot of partners out there that are doing things like you're doing access to be right, that invited me on this program. And that's one of the beautiful things that in social media, it's not it's not very expensive for us to be out there. So we're using the media vehicles such as LinkedIn, Facebook and the others that are out there. And we're also using YouTube to spread the message out there. So we're we're also sharing the stories of our affiliates and their accomplishments and the people that are being served, the parents and their children, so they can share those great stories that sometimes are miracle stories because of the people that are serving them and providing quality services, care and love. So that's one vehicle. The other one is that I I was on 26 I traveled to 26 locations last year, so I'm also providing that message out there. And then within our affiliate network, they're also doing marketing, and they're doing. Brand awareness as well. So it's a whole it's really this whole core nation that we want, not only the nation, no, but globally. Let the people know who is you at UCP and United Cerebral Palsy,   Michael Hingson ** 40:16 what caused UCP to add in as part of the services that are provided, services for people with downs and autism, as opposed to just UCP   Armando Contreras ** 40:32 or UCP. Yeah, so if I go back to when I was at the local United Cerebral Palsy the UC central Arizona. It just happened to be that the programs, the same programs that were provided for children and adults with cerebral palsy, also were beneficial to other conditions. I'm not a researcher, but when there's a breakthrough in cerebral palsy or in autism or in a different condition, they try to see if that same breakthrough will help people with different conditions. What we do know is that the therapies that are being offered to children and adults with cerebral palsy, those same types of therapies are also impactful to other conditions. So what was happening is that, then parents started to to, I guess, the word went out, and what we have across the board in the United States is that we have a high percentage of non cerebral palsy clients, or we'll call them family members, that are are getting services because that's much needed. One Michael is like respite, like respite care. You know any, any family can use that rest, that respite care, no matter what the condition is. So if you're offering that, then you can offer it to the disability community, a broad range of of people that have various conditions,   Michael Hingson ** 42:13 which makes perfect sense, because a lot of the care that needs to be provided is very similar. Well, or is the same? Yes, well, you know, you, I understand, had a an involvement with cancer, and you survived that. How has that affected you and in your attitude? Because, clearly, you're a very sensitive person and very much involved in community and family and helping people. But what, what was the whole situation with you in cancer?   Armando Contreras ** 42:42 You know, I think it's that. I think that's, it's the experience that all people go through when they first hear that you have cancer, right? First thought is, are you going to survive? You know, the first, first thing that comes to you is that it's, it's terminal, right? You're not going to get through it. You know this when you hear news like that, and you know, maybe it's the same as parents hearing that their child has cerebral palsy or disability, you know, you just, you just, it's a scary moment. It's a scary time. So what? Yeah, it was a difficult time for me and for my family, especially, I think my family knowing that I had transitional carcinoma, high grade, and it was a it was a tumor in my bladder that was nine and a half centimeters. I haven't really talked about it a lot, but it's been 10 years. So February, when I had seen that as a suggestion, like you want to talk about that, my first thought was, No, I think I'm going to skip it. But a few seconds later, I said, maybe it's time for me to share with the community, because it's been 10 years since I was diagnosed so and I'll try to make this short, I got diagnosed huge tumor. They had asked me if I wanted that tumor to be taken out, otherwise I could die. And I said, of course. So they took out the tumor. I had a brilliant surgeon that did that. And then after that, they basically said to me that if I don't, if I don't do radical surgery, taking out my bladder, taking out some lymph nodes, my prostate, that I wouldn't live very long, that I had really, like a 35% chance or less to live. So I had said that I wanted to put a pause on this rush, and that perhaps there's an option out there, perhaps there was another way, because I knew that billions of dollars have been raised for cancer. And maybe because this is a whole new journey for me, that the cure was somewhere out there. Well, after going to five different doctors for second opinions, they all said the same to me, that I only had one choice, and that choice radical surgery. And even after that, even after that, I was still I was confused, I was scared, but I was still. There was a pause that I felt that maybe there was something out there. So thanks to my sister, she really saved my life. She connected me with the scientists that she was researching, and that scientist said, you know, I only, I've only done lab studies on this particular oil called frankincense oil. I haven't done any clinical studies, and today, Michael, there's still no clinical studies on frankincense oil. So I started doing that three months after they they took the tumor out. I had 20 more tumors come back in my bladder. But they were small. They were lesions. So I just asked them to scrape, scrape them. The doctors were furious with me. I get it. I mean, that was, that was a protocol. I totally get it, you know. But something, people say that I had a lot of courage. I'm not sure if it was, like just something, it could have been something was telling you. I mean, I definitely there was a lot of prayer during that time. Yeah, a lot of prayer happening at that time. I just couldn't see myself dying, and I didn't want that to happen. So just to kind of, like, kind of close on this is that when those 20 tumors came back, they scraped them. They were supposed to be a lot more coming back, or it was going to invade my body. Three months later, I had nothing, absolutely nothing. Three months after that, I had six lesions come back, and that was March of 2015, so it's been nine years since the last reoccurrence. It's been 10 years since I was diagnosed, and I get checked very often. Once a year in the beginning, I would go in and get checked every three months. So it's been quite the miracle. But I have to say, this is that one I changed. I had changed my diet at the time for about four and a half years, I was strictly doing a lot of juicing, no sugar, a lot of prayer, a lot of family love, a lot of support. I did the frankincense oil. So I think in a comprehensive way, that helped me, and that gave me another option. And I'm very grateful for that, and I'm very grateful that every day I wake up and I say to God, thank you for sparing me. But on the advocacy side, Michael, I just didn't leave it there. I've had conversations with with the with the University of Arizona, with the Arizona State University, with Cancer Centers of America, with St Joseph's Hospital, with my alma mater, USC, and the last conversation I had was with Georgetown University, and these were top CEOs. And I was sharing my documentation, because I have it all there. But sadly, I have to say that they're not interested. They're not interested in a cure, and I'll continue to pursue it when the opportunity continues on, but it's only my story, and I didn't want to leave it where. Well, Lord, thank you so much. You know it never came back, so thank you. No, I have a responsibility to figure out some ways, somehow, that my my story, can turn into a clinical study, and that someday, and maybe not in my my time, that there's going to be an option for millions of people that will contract cancers. So that's my story in a nutshell. Thank you for asking.   Michael Hingson ** 49:04 So what did the frankincense oil actually do? I assume that you feel it was a very significant part of your ability to deal with it.   Armando Contreras ** 49:12 Yeah, it's a good question, because medically, I can't tell you, because we haven't done right? Yeah, we haven't done clinical studies. And I've been, I've been asking these universities and these hospitals and these cancer firms, you know that are out there, and said, Why don't we do the clinical studies so you can so you can see exactly what it did. I can't tell you that what it did. The only thing I can tell you is that is that as they, as they as they took samples of the cancerous tumors. So you had the big tumor, and then the 20 small tumors, and then you had the six lesions that, according to the scientists, dr, dr Lynn, HK Lynn, what he did see is that the cancer cells were becoming less aggressive. And at the end, some of the cancer cells actually turn into good cells. Now, you know, people can believe that or not. I'm I'm okay with that. Sure, only thing I'm saying, Michael is that there should be, there should be clinical studies on this, because I believe it would save hundreds of 1000s of lives. What was it? We don't know. Was it the combination? Is it the combination of me juicing on a daily basis for four and a half years? Was it that, as a Catholic, you know, I was going through all the different sacraments, prayers and healing masses? So I believe there was a holistic healing process. And then my family that was supporting me during a very difficult time,   Michael Hingson ** 50:49 sounds to me like it's time to write a book.   Armando Contreras ** 50:54 I've I've been asked many times, and I think when I think, when, when I feel that, that when I'm ready for that, that, yeah, that's that will happen.   Michael Hingson ** 51:03 Yes, you've got to, you've got to feel ready and feel that it's the right time. But that might be one way to bring visibility to it. Yes, well, you know, you you value family a lot. I understand that there are music connections in your family, has music always been a part of your life or   Armando Contreras ** 51:24 or, yeah, I think I think so. I think that. Well, I know so, because when I was the trumpet player, young trumpet player at St Lucy's Catholic Church, a few years later, my lovely wife, Norma, joined the choir. I didn't know she was married, but she joined the choir. And you know, we have this thing that she doesn't agree with me, but I say, hey, when I when I met you, when I seen you, was love at first sight. And and I said, but not for you. It took a while. And she says, no, no, but so So music, I was playing trumpet, normal was singing. And then later we got married, and then we had our first child. Was Andrea, Andrea Michelle, our daughter, our beautiful daughter, who's with child today, her and her husband, Fabian. So she knew that in our home there was a lot of music happening, and if it was church or at home. And then our second child, Armando, Michael, he started catching on a little bit, but we started to notice that he started to sing and sing right in tune. And then we said, hey, maybe there's something here. So his first recital in Los Angeles, he's saying pop by the Sailor Man and over the rainbow. And he did pretty good. So later he joined as a as a young child, you know, five years old, he joined the choir at St Lucy's. And then we moved. We moved from, we moved from Los Angeles over to Phoenix, Arizona, which was a great blessing being here. And we then were exploring how we can continue to support his talent. And he joined the Grammy Award winning Phoenix boys choir, and that's where he began to sing. Got to meet some wonderful people. They had wonderful directors there, and had a great experience. That experience led him to fall in love with the classics. Oh, there he began to be part of some of the local, local opera performances. So to make a long story short, Norma, my wife and I supported him. He went to the Cleveland Institute of Music, from there in vocals, and then from there, he went to the University of Missouri in Kansas City for his masters. And today he's a professional opera singer. He's a baritone. So it's it's been amazing. All our kids are amazing. I also have to mention that our youngest Andrew, Matthew. He went to Gonzaga University and then graduated from Lewis and Clark in clinical psychology. He's worked with a lot of kids with disabilities. He's a drummer and he's a guitar player. So yes, music is a big part of our family.   Michael Hingson ** 54:28 Well, it is getting to be that time of the year that Gonzaga will become visible again as we get back down to march madness. I actually, I actually had the pleasure of going up there once to speak and and I hadn't really known a lot about Gonzaga at the time, and they were the ones who told me, however, one always said, Where is Gonzaga? You know what? What kind of a place is it? And so I've kept up with it ever since, but it is kind of funny that their basketball team is good. Yeah.   Armando Contreras ** 54:59 Yeah, it's a, it's a beautiful place. It's a great Jesuit university. We, I, you know, he had a great experience. This is Andrew. He had a great experience out there. So, yes, I totally agree. Yeah, we had a chance to go out to Bob, trying to remember the city here. Spokane, yeah, yeah, yeah. Spokane, various times with him,   Michael Hingson ** 55:25 that's pretty cool. Well, so is he professionally doing music now? No, so,   Armando Contreras ** 55:30 So Andrew, our youngest, he's professionally now a clinical psychologist. Ah, yeah, now and now. Armando, Michael, he is a professional opera singer, right? And that's what he does. So, you know, his, his, one of his dreams, is going to be singing at the Metropolitan Ooh, we do see that perhaps happening within a year or two, because they he'll be, right? He'll be auditioning for that, probably very soon, and he's very young. He's just 34 years old.   Michael Hingson ** 56:03 So that'd be super What would you like people to know about the disability community in general, when we think about disabilities, you know, when there's so many prejudices, what would you like people to know and in terms of disabilities and how to maybe change attitudes, yeah,   Armando Contreras ** 56:23 well, they're definitely part of the fabric of society, and we, nobody, not me, or anybody else in in any organization, can speak for them. We need to allow for them and give them that opportunity and space to voice their concerns, to voice whatever joy they have, to voice things that we need to hear in our community. We have to provide while we're here in the United States, and there's been laws that have been enacted, enacted that laws now have to be updated. We have antiquated laws that do not even pay people with disabilities even minimum wage, right? So, so that we really have to be conscious of a community that is part of our society. We need to engage. Furthermore, we have to collaborate. We need them as public, public officials. They need to run for office, right? Some of them do. They have to be part of the decision making, decisions that are being made from all levels of government, all levels of corporation, all levels of nonprofits. And that's the way, that's the way I really see it. Is that, and we also have to have breakthroughs in research, right? What are some of the things that that we can do so we can those lives can be more that they would have more of a more access, right? That even if you go to certain states in the United States that I've been, there's not even accessibility for wheelchairs. And just speak about the airlines, right? How, how and why are people thinking in those corporations that a person that has a disability can easily go into their bathrooms. There's no way, right flying, especially if it's a long flight. So no, there's, there's been some great things Michael that have, that have evolved and happened through a collaboration of a lot of advocates, and a lot of them are self advocates, but we still have a long way to go.   Michael Hingson ** 59:08 Yeah, and I think that's absolutely true. So what is UCP Inc doing to celebrate its 75th anniversary? What kinds of plans do you have and where do you go from here?   Armando Contreras ** 59:19 Well, we do have a an annual conference coming up in Orlando, and this year in April. So that's a good thing for us, you know. But the bigger thing for us is to celebrate is really bringing that education, bringing that awareness of what we're doing, not only in here in the United States, but we also have affiliates in Canada. So as we celebrate, part of our celebration is educating the society about exactly what we do and please, you know, knock on our door for for help. So that's that's really part of it. The other part of it is acknowledge. Gene, the folks that started UCP back in 1949 right? Like the, like the golden sins, and also the housemans and many others that that have helped us get through the 75 years.   Michael Hingson ** 1:00:18 Yeah, well, it's, a great milestone to be able to celebrate 75 years, and I am sure that you, with your background, is very concerned about making sure that there is great sustainability for the future, which is really important and cool that you're thinking about that, because it's something that always needs to be with us in whatever we're doing. That's a good thing. Any kind of last thoughts that you have that you want to convey to people who are listening or watching us.   Armando Contreras ** 1:00:51 Yes, one is first, I want to share my gratitude for inviting me, Michael. And then second, please reach out to us the disability community. Please find us@ucp.org we may be in your backyard. If there are organizations out there that want to become an affiliate of United Cerebral Palsy, please reach out to us as well. We are here. We want to continue to be here for the next 75 years, so that our community can be part and be an inclusive part of our society. That we can bring that help, bring that independence, but we can continue to see those miracles, that children that we're told, and families that were told that they would never walk. I've seen them walk, and were physicians that said to a mom and dad that their child would never move or never speak, and I've seen them hug their parents and tell them that they love them, right? And we want to continue to make those miracles happen through therapies, through early detection, through early intervention, all these forms of of of a reach that we have through United Cerebral Palsy in the United States and Canada and and watched for us in the near future as we begin to go global, and that's really a vision that that I have. But and also, again, is that it's important to know that we know that I know that, Michael, you know that is that everybody is a fabric at society, some way, somehow, no matter their abilities. And that's really important, important message for people to know.   Michael Hingson ** 1:02:43 I agree. Well, I want to thank you for being here with us and conveying all this information, and I hope people will take it to heart and that they'll support UCP and and reach out and learn more about the organization and that you are doing, and will continue to do a lot to just help people in general, with disabilities, which is cool. I appreciate that, and I want to thank Go ahead. No, no.   Armando Contreras ** 1:03:10 I just wanted to thank and I also want to thank accessibe, right? That's how we got here. So I really thank them for what they're doing and providing. I love their model that they have. They have a for profit, a for profit model. However, the services that they, that they provide for nonprofits, are free, and that's that's amazing. So we're really happy with the services, the access services for websites, the accessibility that they're providing for people in the disability community to have that access. Well,   Michael Hingson ** 1:03:48 thank you, and we're excited about the time ahead and and I think that's that's a good thing, and we'll all work to make it happen. Well, I want to thank everyone who was listening and watching today. We really appreciate it. I hope that you'll give us a five star rating wherever you're observing our podcast. We value that. Love it. If you'd reach out to me, give me your thoughts, your opinions and Armando for you and for all of our guests, our listeners and so on today, if you know of anyone else who ought to be a guest on unstoppable mindset, please let us know. Provide introductions. We're always looking for guests. You can reach out to me directly at Michael H, i@accessibe.com that's m, I, C, H, A, E, L, H, I at accessibe, A, C, C, E, S, S, I, B, e.com, or go to our podcast page, www dot Michael hinkson.com/podcast, and Michael Hinkson is spelled M, I C, H, A, E, L, H, I N, G, S o, n.com/podcast, so we really do value all the thoughts and and information and suggestions that people provide. Yeah, as I think I've mentioned to many of you before, I also do travel and speak, especially after September 11, 2001 if anyone needs a speaker, please reach out. You can get me easiest at speaker at Michael hingson.com but however you do it, you've got all sorts of ways to reach out to me. Love to hear from you. And you know, once again, Armando, I want to thank you very much for being here, and thank you for all of your time today.   Armando Contreras ** 1:05:24 Michael, thank you many blessings to you and your family, and many blessings to everybody out there who is going to listen to this podcast interview.   Michael Hingson ** 1:05:39 You have been listening to the Unstoppable Mindset podcast. Thanks for dropping by. I hope that you'll join us again next week, and in future weeks for upcoming episodes. To subscribe to our podcast and to learn about upcoming episodes, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com slash podcast. Michael Hingson is spelled m i c h a e l h i n g s o n. While you're on the site., please use the form there to recommend people who we ought to interview in upcoming editions of the show. And also, we ask you and urge you to invite your friends to join us in the future. If you know of any one or any organization needing a speaker for an event, please email me at speaker at Michael hingson.com. I appreciate it very much. To learn more about the concept of blinded by fear, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com forward slash blinded by fear and while you're there, feel free to pick up a copy of my free eBook entitled blinded by fear. The unstoppable mindset podcast is provided by access cast an initiative of accessiBe and is sponsored by accessiBe. Please visit www.accessibe.com . AccessiBe is spelled a c c e s s i b e. There you can learn all about how you can make your website inclusive for all persons with disabilities and how you can help make the internet fully inclusive by 2025. Thanks again for Listening. Please come back and visit us again next week.

Debbie Steinhauer is passionate about giving to the community. An expert in starting Non-Profit Foundations, she is the Founder of Fox River Grove Recreation Counsel (1984), Co-Founder/Chair VOICES (1992), Seattle Fire Foundation (2019), and the Scottsdale Police Foundation (2023). As Founder and CEO of the Scottdale Police Foundation, she volunteers her time to the organization and is responsible for the management of the organization, the Board and integration of the various programs into the community. Outside of Debbie's volunteer work, Debbie spent her career in Health Care Executive Leadership as Director of Physician Services, then moved to owning two successful restaurants. She lives in North Scottsdale with her husband and three dogs.Originally from New York, Jon grew up in Scottsdale and is a graduate of University of Arizona in Tucson. With a background in both commercial brokerage and property management, Jon co-founded LevRose Commercial Real Estate in 1992 with Robert Levine. Under his leadership, LevRose is a six time honoree as one of the Inc 500/5000 Fastest Growing Companies in the U.S. LevRose has consistently been named one of the Business Journal's "Top 25 Commercial Brokerage Firms", is a multi-year recipient of Costar Groups "Power Broker" Award and in 2020 was names "#1 Commercial Brokerage Firm" by Ranking Arizona Magazine. Jon served for several years on the board and is an active member of the Arizona Chapter of Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO). Currently, he is a member of the Board of Directors of TCN Worldwide, an International alliance of commercial real estate firms of which LevRose is the Arizona affiliate and is also serving on the Board of Directors of the recently formed Scottsdale Police Foundation. He recently served on the Board of the Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA) and gives time to serve on committees for the City of Scottsdale, the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix and the University of Arizona Mentorship Society, where he helps mentor numerous up and coming leaders in Arizona. Jon was recently recognized by AZRE Magazine as One of the "Top People to Know in Commercial Real Estate". He has been a featured guest on PBS television show "Arizona Horizons" as well as interviews on numerous podcasts, GlobeStreet.com, the Arizona Republic and the Phoenix Business Journal.

AZ Bio Week & Life Sciences Innovation w/ Joan Koerber-Walker - AZ TRT S05 EP36 (252) 9-16-2024   Things We Learned This Week AZ Bio mission to improve life and bioscience, & make AZ a Top Ten Bioscience state AZ Bio Week 2023 is Sep. 16, 5 Days Talks, Events & Awards 3 Ds - Discovery, Development, & Delivery - takes years, and $ billions to bring new drugs to market Their company members deal with diseases, medical devices & cancer research to cure it Combo of Gov't & Private Funding, University research & private company work     Guest: Joan Koerber-Walker President and CEO, AZBio - Arizona Bioindustry Association, Inc. Chairman, Opportunity Through Entrepreneurship Foundation   LKIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joankoerberwalker  www.azbio.org Bio: As President and CEO of AZBio, Joan Koerber-Walker works on behalf of the Arizona Bioscience and Medical Technology Industry to support the growth of the industry, its members and our community on the local and national level. Ms. Koerber-Walker is also a life science investor and has served on the boards of numerous for-profit and non-profit organizations.       In the life science industry, Ms. Koerber-Walker serves as as Arizona's representative to the State Medical Technology Alliance (SMTA), a consortium of state and regional trade associations representing their local medical technology companies which she chaired in 2015 and  represents Arizona as a member of the Council of State Bioscience Associations (CSBA) and the Coalition of State Bioscience Institutes (CSBI). Active in the entrepreneurial and investment communities, she also serves as Chairman of the Board of the Opportunity Through Entrepreneurship Foundation which provides entrepreneurial education, mentoring and support to at-risk members of the community, on the Board of Advisors to CellTrust, Inc. which provides secure communication technology to the healthcare industry, and as Chairman of CorePurpose, Inc. which she founded in 2002. Ms. Koerber-Walker has been recognized as Executive of the Year by the Arizona Society of Association Executives, as a “Most Admired Leader” by the Phoenix Business Journal (2015),  in the pages of AZ Business Leaders (2013 thru 2020), Most Influential Women in Arizona Business (2014) and is a 2 time National Finalist for the Stevie Award which recognizes the work of women in business. Her past experience includes two years as the CEO of ASBA (the Arizona Small Business Association), service as a member of the Board of Trustees of the National Small Business Association in Washington D.C., President of the National Speakers Association/Arizona, Chair of the Board of Advisors to Parenting Arizona, the state's largest child abuse prevention organization, & much more.     AZBio:  Supporting Arizona's Life Science Industry for 19 Years (2003 – 2022) Learn more about Arizona's bioindustry: www.azbio.org | Facebook: AZBIO |Twitter: @AZBio @AZBioCEO We're part of a movement to create sustainable funding for life science innovation in Arizona. Learn more at www.AZAdvances.org  MOVING LIFE SCIENCE INNOVATIONS ALONG THE PATH FROM DISCOVERY TO DEVELOPMENT TO DELIVERY OUR VISION OF THE FUTURE: Arizona is a top-ten life science state. OUR MISSION: AZBio supports the needs of Arizona's growing life science ecosystem. The Arizona Bioindustry Association (AZBio) is a not-for-profit, 501(c)6 trade association supporting the growth of Arizona's life science sector. AZBio  Member Organizations in the fields of business, research and education, health care delivery, economic development, government, and other professions involved in the biosciences are the key drivers of the growth of Arizona's life science sector.  As the unified voice of our industry in Arizona, AZBio strives to make Arizona a place where bioscience organizations can grow and succeed.   AZBio works nationally and globally with the Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed), the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), the Medical Device Manufacturers Association (MDMA), the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), and leading patient advocacy organizations. Through these relationships, AZBio has access to information, contacts, resources, cost saving programs, and the global bioscience and medtech community.   Arizona's bioscience industry is growing rapidly and reached nearly 30,000 jobs spanning 2,160 business establishments in 2018. Industry employment has grown by 15 percent since 2016—twice the growth rate of the nation—with each of the five major subsectors adding jobs during the period. Arizona's universities conducted nearly $580 million in R&D activities in bioscience-related fields in 2018, fueled in part by steadily increasing NIH awards to Arizona institutions since 2016. Venture capital investments in Arizona bioscience companies increased in 2019, and during the 2016-19 period totaled $349 million. Arizona inventors have been awarded 2,178 bioscience-related patents since 2016, among the second quintile of states in patent activity.     Notes:   Seg 1   Biotech and life sciences industry in Arizona, has 3000 businesses and 36,000 employees. The economic impact in 2021 was $38.5 billion. AZ Bio would like to double, so by 2033, the impact would be $78 billion.   Examples of biotech companies in Arizona are Medtronic that makes medical devices, WL Gore, material sciences. Other companies in diagnostics, there are Sonoran Quest which does testing. This also Castle Bio Sciences, deals in cancer treatment. Some medicine companies are Bristol, Myers, and Calvari who deals in cancer drugs. Calvari is the bio science company of the year in 2024.   AZ Bio Science Week started in 2017. AZ Bio week starts September 16 and has events daily from Monday to Friday.   Seg 2   Neo clinical stage company dealing in heart health with aortic artery for the abdomen.   Another new company is prim dealing in MCT deficiency, compound growth and they are in clinical and testing stages.   Drugs get tested through computer models, and then on animals. Always have to worry about safety and ethics. FDA has very strict rules. You do not put people at risk, after monitor, during test and post monitoring. There's high-level quality control.     https://www.azbio.org/azbw2024   Events Summary: Monday - Women in Biotech Leading Women: Biotech & Beyond Join us for an evening of conversation and connections with our community's leading women as we kick off Arizona Bioscience Week in style!   Tuesday - Fundraising Fundraising Strategies for Life Science Startups  A compelling narrative is crucial when you are fundraising and communicating with life science investors.  This Life Science Nation (LSN) Global Fundraising Bootcamp covers topics related to executing a successful fundraise for your startup.      Wednesday – AZ Bio awards, philanthropy, entertainment, and AZ Advances The 20th Annual AZBio Awards & AZAdvances After Party Celebrate with the Educators, Researchers, and Organizations that are making life better for people in Arizona and around the world.  Join us at the Phoenix Convention Center as we honor the 2024 AZBio Award Winners. Hundreds of health innovators and business leaders will be celebrating at the 20th Annual AZBio Awards.   Thursday- White Hat Investor White Hat Life Science Investor Conference White Hat Investors 2024 showcases exciting biotech and medtech companies from across the Rocky Mountain & Southwest Region. Friday - Voice of the Patient, Bridge Cures Event Voice of the Patient Patients are the reason we do what we do.  Join the conversation on life science innovation from the patient perspective.  Ponte Cura: The Bridge to Cures Ponte Cura is a special donor appreciation event for the people and organizations supporting the Opportunity Through Entrepreneurship Foundation AZAdvances Initiative   AZ Advances: Arizonans are advancing life changing and life saving innovations along the path from discovery to development to delivery. AZAdvances is developing the funding that will help advance health innovations in Arizona today and for generations to come.  Charitable donations to the AZAdvances fund at the Opportunity Through Entrepreneurship Foundation, an Arizona based 501c3 public charity, are a way to support the creation of tomorrow's medical innovations.      Seg. 3   Replay Clips from: Preventing Cancer with a Vaccine w/ Stephen Johnston of Calviri   - AZ TRT S04 EP17 (179) 4-23-2023   Things We Learned This Week Calviri is working on a Vaccine to PREVENT Cancer, currently largest animal clinical trial Inflammation - starting points of bad cells Cancer - bad cells replicate Could Prevent other diseases & extend longevity of people's lives - ex.- help w/ dementia Tumors make bad proteins Calviri vaccine works on RNA (proteins) kills tumor, & arms immune system     Full Show: HERE         Best of Biotech from AZ Bio & Life Sciences to Jellatech: HERE   Biotech Shows: HERE   AZ Tech Council Shows:  https://brt-show.libsyn.com/size/5/?search=az+tech+council *Includes Best of AZ Tech Council show from 2/12/2023      ‘Best Of' Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Best+of+BRT      Thanks for Listening. Please Subscribe to the BRT Podcast.     AZ Tech Roundtable 2.0 with Matt Battaglia The show where Entrepreneurs, Top Executives, Founders, and Investors come to share insights about the future of business.  AZ TRT 2.0 looks at the new trends in business, & how classic industries are evolving.  Common Topics Discussed: Startups, Founders, Funds & Venture Capital, Business, Entrepreneurship, Biotech, Blockchain / Crypto, Executive Comp, Investing, Stocks, Real Estate + Alternative Investments, and more…    AZ TRT Podcast Home Page: http://aztrtshow.com/ ‘Best Of' AZ TRT Podcast: Click Here Podcast on Google: Click Here Podcast on Spotify: Click Here                    More Info: https://www.economicknight.com/azpodcast/ KFNX Info: https://1100kfnx.com/weekend-featured-shows/     Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the Hosts, Guests and Speakers, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent (or affiliates, members, managers, employees or partners), or any Station, Podcast Platform, Website or Social Media that this show may air on. All information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes. Nothing said on this program should be considered advice or recommendations in: business, legal, real estate, crypto, tax accounting, investment, etc. Always seek the advice of a professional in all business ventures, including but not limited to: investments, tax, loans, legal, accounting, real estate, crypto, contracts, sales, marketing, other business arrangements, etc.  

Have you ever felt like your life didn't go as planned and wondered if you're still worthy of the dreams in your heart?It's easy to feel lost when life takes unexpected turns, especially when you've always believed there was only one path to achieving your dreams. Many of us fall into the trap of thinking that if we don't hit certain milestones by a certain age, we've failed.But what if these detours are actually part of a bigger plan? What if the key to embracing your true worth lies in letting go of those expectations and trusting in the timing of your journey? In today's episode, Nicole Myden shares her deeply personal story of navigating unexpected life changes, finding her true worth, and trusting the process, even when it didn't look like what she originally envisioned.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL LEARN:·       How to stay connected to your desires, even when life takes unexpected turns.·       The importance of trusting the timing of your life, and how to do it.·       How to navigate through grief and loss while maintaining hope for the future.·       The power of spirituality and inner work in healing and rediscovering your true self.Join us as Nicole Myden reminds us that we are worthy of our dreams, even when the path to achieving them looks different than we expected.Connect with Nicole:Instagram: https://www.nicolemyden.com/Website: https://www.instagram.com/nicolemyden/Nicole's Bio:Nicole Myden has been connecting people and brands with the media for 23 years. Her career began in 2000 in Los Angeles working in entertainment publicity for Disney, FOX on American Idol, and films for Sony Pictures Classic. Since then, Nicole has produced publicity campaigns in every niche with popular and well-known consumer brands and products in the areas of fashion, beauty, lifestyle, health, wellness, tech, food, hospitality, medical, entrepreneurship, and more. Her clients have been featured across an array of media outlets over the years including Forbes, The Today Show, Good Morning America, Los Angeles Business Journal, Phoenix Business Journal, Women's Wear Daily, Oprah Magazine, Glamour, Marie ClaireCONNECT with Lisa & get IVF COACHING SUPPORT**VOTE for Soulful IVF in MINDSET category for Women in Podcasting Awards:https://womeninpodcasting.net/awards/?sc=2666714379decab4c1cd10f27ce9b9ff68b5b7c8fJOIN - FREE IVF COMMUNITY: https://forms.gle/6s6pofN2PYkKJMYAADOWNLOAD: FREE GUIDE: 11 SUCCESS STORIESBOOK a complimentary DISCOVERY CALL BOOK: ‘HOLD ON, BABY! A Soulful Guide to Navigating the Ups & Downs of Infertility & IVF.'INSTAGRAMWATCH on YOUTUBELISTEN to the PODCAST on Apple and Spotify:**Please Rate the show & Subscribe! THANK YOU so much for your Reviews of the podcast - It means the absolute world! Music Credit (Closing Song) by Sam Costigan. Follow her on Spotify and ...

Making news is our jam, and the Phoenix Business Journal is your insider's guide to the world of development. Join us as we navigate the crossroads of land deals and breaking news —because in our world, even dirt has a story to tell.

Whitney Harvey, a serial entrepreneur and founder of The Self-Coached Lawyer, shares her journey of entrepreneurship and career pivots in this episode. From expanding her business to being recognized as one of the top 40 under 40 by the Phoenix Business Journal, Whitney discusses the importance of authenticity, self-promotion, and taking risks in crafting your ideal profession. Tune in to hear Whitney's inspiring story of growth and empowerment in the world of entrepreneurship.Lawyer Side HustlesWhitney Harvey's business, The Self-Coached Lawyer, is not just limited to the legal profession but extends its reach to community visionaries and advocates seeking to tap into their purpose and repurpose their current careers. Through her business, Whitney emphasizes the importance of addressing burnout, well-being, and finding one's purpose, incorporating spiritual and mindfulness components into one's profession.“You really can craft your ideal profession...it's looking at the parts of what you've done that you do enjoy, keeping that. So you can keep that on your plate. And then you can innovate. You can explore and do something that's never been done,” shares Whitney Harvey in Episode 147 of You Are a Lawyer.Whitney also highlighted the possibility of having a side business as a lawyer, emphasizing the importance of exploring different avenues without immediately quitting one's day job. She mentioned how individuals can work part-time for someone else, teach at a college or university, engage in speaking engagements, or delve into coaching and consulting while still maintaining their current profession. This approach allows for the freedom to explore and create a unique career path tailored to individual interests and aspirations.LISTEN TO LEARNHow to pivot and change careers as needed in entrepreneurshipThe importance of self-nomination and self-promotion in achieving recognition and validationThe value of authenticity and owning one's uniqueness in business and professional settingsWE ALSO DISCUSSThe journey of entrepreneurship and the impact of exploring different industriesThe experience of attending and being recognized at the Phoenix Business Journal's 40 Under 40 award ceremonyThe significance of investing in oneself and sponsoring personal achievementsJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

Join us today for a front-row seat to real talk from two agency owners! Whitney is chatting with Susie Timm, Founder and CEO of Knife & Fork Media. The two agency owners give you the scoop on things that they LOVE about owning an agency, tips for freelancers looking to scale, and things that they had to learn the hard way so that you don't have to. If you're a freelancer on the verge of scaling and growing a team, you won't want to miss this episode! ---------------- Knife & Fork Media Founder, Susie Timm grew up in the land of cow, otherwise known as Wisconsin. In 1992 she moved to the Valley of the Sun and graduated from high school in Scottsdale and is a proud alumni of Arizona State University with her Bachelor's of Arts degree in Political Science.. Interestingly enough, she started a booming career as a banker in 2000 and was named the youngest Bank President in Arizona at the age of 27. Susie worked in that industry until it became “un-fun” in 2009. She found her true passion in the food industry mid-2009 when she co-founded a food events company. That business morphed into the full service PR agency we are today! Susie and her team manage a marketing portfolio of clients ranging in size and scope from food to entertainment to accounting. With over fifteen years of experience, her proven marketing, media and sales models have helped grow small and medium-sized companies all over Arizona and the United States. Susie won numerous achievement awards for her sales skills during her years as a corporate warrior. Additionally, she has been honored as a member of the Phoenix Business Journal's “40 under 40,” and “Women Leaders in Business,” the Phoenix New Times' “100 Tastemakers in Phoenix,” So Scottsdale's “24 Powerful Leaders Under 40,” and has served as a national trendspotter for the Specialty Food Association's Fancy Food Shows. Susie is a proud graduate of Scottsdale Leadership, Class 23. Susie has been a recurring featured guest on many local TV stations for her passionate take on gourmet food trends. Susie believes strongly in community stewardship and to that end, she has served as a board member with Scottsdale Leadership, the Leadership Council of Careers in Culinary Arts (C-Cap AZ), and has served three times as the Co-Chair of Taste of the Nation Arizona, an event that raises important funds to feed hungry kids in Arizona. She currently serves as Vice President of Les Dames de Escoffier, Phoenix Chapter and is a founding member of the One More Ball Foundation, dedicated to bringing tennis to underserved kids. For fun, Susie plays tennis 4-5 times a week, cooks, reads cooking magazines, sits in the Jacuzzi and spends too much time shopping online. ------------- Connect with Susie Knife & Fork Media Connect with Whitney

Known for their daring antics and outgoing personality, Ruth Carter is an Arizona attorney and an authority on intellectual property, business law, and internet law. Ruth was selected as an American Bar Association Legal Rebel and a Phoenix Business Journal 40 Under 40. They also wrote three best-selling books including The Legal Side of Blogging: How Not to get Sued, Fired, Arrested, or Killed. Ruth has been a speaker over 100 events including Content Marketing World and South by Southwest, and featured in the Wall Street Journal, Entrepreneur, and on NPR.

2024 CANDIDATE EDITION With a dynamic career spanning over two decades in the energy, water, and infrastructure sectors, I currently lead as a Senior Engineer within the Electric Vehicle (EV) group at Salt River Project (SRP). At the forefront of SRP's managed charging initiatives, my role is crucial in shaping the future of electric vehicle integration. My work is driven by a passion for innovation and sustainability, evidenced by significant achievements, including being named in the Phoenix Business Journal's 2018 40 under 40 for my impactful leadership and my involvement as a member of the 2023 class of the Flinn-Brown Fellowship through the Arizona Center for Civic Leadership. My professional journey is marked by a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of energy efficiency and sustainable infrastructure development complexities. As a registered Professional Engineer, Certified Energy Manager, and Certified Demand Side Manager, I specialize in leading complex projects to fruition. My approach combines advanced business analytics and systems engineering principles to address the pressing challenges of energy and water resource management. Outside of SRP, I contribute my expertise as the Chairman of the Planning Commission for Gilbert, Arizona, guiding urban planning and community development towards sustainability. Furthermore, as the Founder and former President of Nexus Integrated Solutions, I played a pivotal role in establishing the firm as a leader in sustainability solutions in Arizona. My transition to a private investor and shareholder status allows me to focus on strategic projects at SRP and continue my extensive civic engagement, reflecting my unwavering dedication to making a lasting impact on the community and the environment. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

In this episode, we pour into the inspiring story of a visionary who stirred the wine industry by founding ONEHOPE at just 23, blending a passion for wine with a profound commitment to social impact.Now with over 18 years under her belt, she's not just creating delicious wines but is also making waves with a business model that marries profit with purpose. Discover how her journey from an ambitious young founder to a seasoned industry leader has paved the way for a new era of socially conscious businesses. Business leaders tuning in will gain insights into leveraging entrepreneurial spirit for social impact, the challenges of sustaining a mission-driven company, and the secrets to balancing innovation with tradition in a competitive market. Whether you're an entrepreneur or a seasoned executive, prepare to be inspired by a story of resilience, vision, and the power of giving back.Kristen Shroyer is a social entrepreneur and disruptor in the wine industry with over 18 years of experience. In 2007 she co-founded ONEHOPE at age 23, making her one of the youngest females in the country to start a wine company. In addition to giving back 10% of every purchase, ONEHOPE created its own unique distribution platform empowering anyone to join its mission to change the world with wine. Known for her ability to effectively build and foster partnerships, Kristen has been instrumental in the growth and success of the organization. Along with her partners, Kristen has helped grow the brand from 0 to 1.5 million bottles a year – making it one of the top 250 wineries by volume in the United States.Throughout her tenure, she has demonstrated her passion for social impact and leads the company's giving initiatives as Chief Impact Officer. Under her guidance, ONEHOPE has donated over $10 million to over 40,000 nonprofits. She has skillfully combined business growth with a commitment to making a positive difference in the world.Kristen was named "40 Under 40" by the Phoenix Business Journal, "Girl On Fire" by Trends Magazine, and just recently an ATHENA finalist by the Greater Phoenix Chamber. She resides in her hometown of Scottsdale with her husband and two young daughters.

Rod Arquette Show Daily Rundown – Monday, April 15, 20244:20 pm: Brandon Brown, Reporter for the Phoenix Business Journal, joins Rod to discuss what went wrong with the National Hockey League team in Phoenix that led to their departure to Utah.4:38 pm: Senator Dan McCay, who sponsored a bill passed by the Utah Legislature this year allowing sales taxes to be raised in Salt Lake City for the construction of a new arena for the Utah Jazz and the NHL should a hockey team come to Utah, joins Rod to explain the details of the bill.6:05 pm: Alfredo Ortiz, President and CEO of the Job Creators Network, joins Rod for a conversation about his piece for the Washington Times on how Hispanics will determine the outcome of the 2024 election.6:20 pm: Joe Guy, Director of Development at Personnel Policy Operations and a former Trump administration official joins Rod to discuss his piece in The Federalist about how the RNC cleaned house to get everyone on the same page about election integrity.6:38 pm: University of Utah Law Professor Amos Guiora, who lives part time in Israel, joins Rod to give us his thoughts on how Israel should respond to the Iran attack.

Get to know these successful thought leaders and find out how they present themselves and their crafts as experts in their fields. Brian Bogert is a human behavior and performance coach, keynote speaker, business strategist, author, and community leader. He helps growth-minded individuals achieve the best version of themselves– their true authentic selves. As a result of his innovative and dynamic leadership, Brian Bogert was acclaimed as one of the “40 Under 40” by the Phoenix Business Journal. If you are an entrepreneur and deep down, you don't know who you really are, it is best to reach out to Brian Bogert by logging on to www.brianbogert.com or by visiting his LinkedIn page at https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianbogert/.  Lucy Hoger is a successful corporate board member, CEO, and senior operating executive. She has continuously provided vision and propelled profitable business growth to take organizations and companies to the next level of achievement within competitive markets. She has proven herself repeatedly as a leader for spearheading the turnaround of potential failures into successes, reengineering operations for optimal results, and innovating technology solutions and business strategies that open the doors to new and expanded markets with long-term viability and growth prospects, even in volatile economies. If you recognize that you have a leaky bucket and that you need to figure out not just how to fill or empty it, you should reach out to Lucy Hoger by visiting her website at https://lucyhoger.com/ or https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucyhoger/. Simone Vincenzi is a multi-award-winning serial entrepreneur and author who helped people launch more than 500 profitable businesses before he reached the age of 30 with his company GTeX. He is passionate about building thriving community-led businesses where the members are the core and essence of the decisions and development of ideas. If you're an expert and are tired of monthly launches, you have to reach out to Simone Vincenzi by visiting his website at https://gtex.org.uk/.  Global Credibility Expert, Mitchell Levy is a TEDx speaker and international bestselling author of over 60 books. As The AHA Guy at AHAthat (https://ahathat.com), he helps to extract the genius from your head in a two-three hour interview so that his team can ghostwrite your book, publish it, distribute it, and make you an Amazon bestselling author in four months or less. He is an accomplished Entrepreneur who has created twenty businesses in Silicon Valley including four publishing companies that have published over 800 books. He's provided strategic consulting to over one hundred companies, and has been chairman of the board of a NASDAQ-listed company. Mitchell has been happily married for thirty years and regularly spends four weeks in Europe with family and friends. Visit https://mitchelllevy.com/mitchelllevypresents/ for an archive of all the podcast episodes.   Connect to Mitchell Levy on: Credibility Nation YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/CredibilityNation  Credibility Nation LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/credibilitynation/ Mitchell Levy Present AHA Moments: https://mitchelllevy.com/mitchelllevypresents/ Thought Leader Life: https://thoughtleaderlife.com Twitter: @Credtabulous Instagram: @credibilitynation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Kiss My Assets Podcast we discuss new trends in the multifamily market using data from sources such as Globe St and Phoenix Business Journal! We also touch on the new updates regarding the TSMC plant here in Phoenix and how this will boost our economy for years to come.

                                                  Eric Miller, CEO, Entrepreneur, Director speaks with us why it's important "To learn your tools", "Never to understate the importance of a network", why we should "Know our own bias" and more. Hosted by Diana White About Eric Miller   Eric is a co-owner of Tempe-based PADT, Inc., a provider of tools and services to companies that design and manufacture physical products. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from UC Berkeley and started his career focusing on applying Computer-Aided Engineering to turbine engine components. As a co-founder of PADT in 1994, Eric also pursued IT, graphic design, 3D printing, database programming, HR, and small business management. Eric is often called upon to write and speak on simulation, design, and 3D printing. He is also steeply involved with the startup community and the high-tech sector. Eric hosts the podcast All Things ANSYS. He is currently Chair of the Arizona Technology Council Board of Directors, a member of the Arizona Technology Investors' screening committee, and serves on several advisory boards. Eric also serves as an Entrepreneur in Residence at the Arizona Commerce Authority and mentors through multiple startup incubators including Chandler Innovations and The CleanTech Open. He regularly contributes to the Phoenix Business Journal with articles about technology, small business, and the Arizona ecosystem. Eric also moonlights as a freelance writer. He enjoys traveling, writing, history, cooking, and learning about new things. Episode Notes Lesson 1. Communication is so important and drives everything. 03:28 Lesson 2. Never understate the importance of a strong network 06:11 Lesson 3. What you learned in Kindergarten works. 09:09 Lesson 4. People and situations change over time. 11:54 Lesson 5. Know your own bias. 15:10 Lesson 6. Feelings should guide you, not constrain you. 18:26 Lesson 7. Be able to do, or at least understand, your employee's job 20:57 Lesson 8. Letting people go is good for their co-workers, for them, and for your company. 23:53 Lesson 9. Take the time to learn your tools. 27:45 Lesson 10. Understand the real and perceived value 30:41

Joe and small business marketing expert Nicole Zeno delve into strategies for success in the dynamic world of startups and SMBs. Drawing from her extensive experience in shaping her family's entrepreneurial venture, Nicole went on to establish Clever Cow Media and Clever U, guided by the belief that collaboration fuels prosperity. Recognized as a leader in innovation, with accolades such as being named to the Phoenix Business Journal's 40 Under 40, Nicole shares valuable insights gained from her diverse career in industries ranging from music and film to technology. In this episode, she provides perspectives on goal-setting, formulating strategies for future success, and maintaining work-life balance as an ultramarathon runner. Join us on The Forbes Books Podcast for an engaging conversation as Nicole imparts her wisdom on planning for the upcoming year and offers effective techniques to empower small businesses for growth in 2024.About Nicole Zeno: At a young age, Nicole watched as her parents started and built a company from the basement of her childhood home. In that moment, she realized the impact one small business could have on not just her family but the whole community.Since then, she has achieved a lot, failed at some, and had a lot of fun along the way. Nicole dabbled in many different industries, including music, TV, movies, tech, startups, apps, and more.The epiphany came while she was working with clients and realized that the skills she had learned and her cumulative experiences had put her in a unique position to help them grow their businesses.She started Clever Cow Media and CleverU with the belief that when we collaborate, SMBs and startups thrive, local economies thrive, and we build stronger communities.

Casey Strunk has been a Licensed Insurance Broker since 2004. He joined Strunk Insurance Group to join his father's business that same year, after graduating from Northwestern University. Casey's unique approach to Employee Benefits has earned him a spot amongst Arizona's Top Brokers year over year with the Phoenix Business Journal. Serving as President & Owner of Strunk Insurance Group and Strunk HR since 2018, Casey empowers each of the firm's team members to continue to push the envelope in terms of what it means to be a committed advocate for their clients.Casey is also a devoted father, husband, and takes time to give back to his community by serving on multiple Board of Directors for organizations who serve the youth of Arizona.https://strunkgroup.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseystrunk/https://www.instagram.com/strunk.group/George Dorsey specializes in companies that have over 124 employees, mainly blue collar. We specialize in job costing and labor distribution. We understand how important your employees in the field are and still need to be kept in the loop!https://www.payrollexperts.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-dorsey-608bb247Mac and Bleu is the hot new podcast dedicated to all things related to building Arizona. Topics discussed range from construction, economic development, supply chain, and market segments.Mac & Bleu also includes diversity in construction, local politics affecting construction, women in construction, construction technology, and more.The host JJ Levenske of Bleuwave have their finger on the pulse of the people building Arizona.The show brings in the brightest minds in their perspective positions and industries and JJ has the unique ability to touch on the subject matter that you want to hear.If you want to know who's building Arizona, tune in and subscribe to Mac and Bleu today!___________________________________________________________________________________JJ Levenske is a seasoned construction executive with over 30 years of experience in the commercial and industrial sectors.From pre-construction services to complex quality controls and close-outs, he brings a commitment to delivering the highest levels of professionalism and customer service.

Looking To Grow? Don't Know Where To Start? Feeling Overwhelmed? Join me and my guest Nicole Zeno, CEO and Founder of Clever Cow Media (www.clevercowmedia.com). Nicole is a fierce female entrepreneur who has been through the good, bad, and ugly, and is helping others overcome obstacles and reach success. Nicole's expertise lies in creating growth strategies for both start ups and small to medium businesses (SMBs). She has built, grown, and run multi 6-7 figure businesses, including exits from three as a founder. Her extensive background and experience has led her to help small and mid-size businesses and startups build the processes and strategies to thrive. She is an Ultra Marathoner, one of Phoenix Business Journal 's 40 Under 40 and and was named as a Top 100 Marketing Leader by MARSum in 2021 & 2022. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heather Personne is a Managing Principal of Evolve Ventures, a regional real estate development and advisory group focused on adding value to all aspects of the real estate life cycle through a focus on the evolution of real estate to reflect a more consumer-driven experience. Heather has over 25 years of experience in real estate acquisitions, development, management and dispositions.  Throughout her career, she has spearheaded the development of more than 100 retail, office, hospitality and multi-family properties throughout the western United States.  Prior to co-founding Evolve, she held roles as a Principal with Point B Property Development, a Retail Partner with Phoenix-based commercial development and investment firm ViaWest Group and a Principal with Evergreen Devco, a regional retail and multi-family developer. Heather graduated Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Arizona Honors College and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and French.  She is heavily involved with the Urban Land Institute, currently serving as Vice Chair for the Arizona District Council and Vice Chair/Founding Member of the National ULI Place Making Product Council.  She is also a member of ICSC and the Arizona chapter of CREW and sits on the Maricopa County Board of Adjustment.  Heather was named a Most Admired Leader by the Phoenix Business Journal and recognized among the Most Influential Women by AZ Big media in 2023. In addition to her professional commitments, Heather also participates on the alumni board of the Phoenix chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta and is a founding board member of the Roadrunner League of Boys Team Charity, a civic organization focused on encouraging philanthropic commitments among young adults.  Heather resides in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband Matt and three children. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, snow-skiing and traveling.LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/heatherpersonne/Facebook: www.facebook.com/heather.personneLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/19059917/admin/feed/posts/Website: www.evolveventuresphx.com/Mac and Bleu is the hot new podcast dedicated to all things related to building Arizona. Topics discussed range from construction, economic development, supply chain, and market segments.Mac & Bleu also includes diversity in construction, local politics affecting construction, women in construction, construction technology, and more.The host JJ Levenske of Bleuwave have their finger on the pulse of the people building Arizona.The show brings in the brightest minds in their perspective positions and industries and JJ has the unique ability to touch on the subject matter that you want to hear.If you want to know who's building Arizona, tune in and subscribe to Mac and Bleu today!___________________________________________________________________________________JJ Levenske is a seasoned construction executive with over 30 years of experience in the commercial and industrial sectors.From pre-construction services to complex quality controls and close-outs, he brings a commitment to delivering the highest levels of professionalism and customer service.

Welcome back to Environmental Professionals Radio, Connecting the Environmental Professionals Community Through Conversation, with your hosts Laura Thorne and Nic Frederick! On today's episode, we talk with Dr. Laurie LaPat-Polasko, Vice President/National Director of Remediation, Matrix New World Engineering about Microbial Bioremediation, Working with your Hero, and Humpback Whale Encounters.   Read her full bio below.Help us continue to create great content! If you'd like to sponsor a future episode hit the support podcast button or visit www.environmentalprofessionalsradio.com/sponsor-formShowtimes: 1:24  Nic & Laura talk about animal fears & misconceptions11:43   Interview with Laurie LaPat- Polasko starts22:15   Bioremediation35:26   Working with your hero/ Fieldnotes44:04   Humpback WhalesPlease be sure to ✔️subscribe, ⭐rate and ✍review. This podcast is produced by the National Association of Environmental Professions (NAEP). Check out all the NAEP has to offer at NAEP.org.Connect with Dr. LaPat-Polasko at https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-lapat-polasko-b9149347/Guest Bio:Known worldwide, Dr. LaPat-Polasko specializes in environmental engineering and microbiology, developing sustainable ways to biodegrade contaminants.  She is involved in a variety of air projects over the years, legionella, hydrogen sulfide issues, etc. Dr. LaPat-Polasko has been the recipient of several prominent honors. She received the GOLD International Stevie Award for Women in Business, Woman of the Year – Technology, was selected as Outstanding Business Woman of the Year by the Phoenix Business Journal for her community leadership, professional accomplishments, and personal achievements and received the Prism Award from the Society of Women, Engineers for Outstanding Leadership in STEM.Music CreditsIntro: Givin Me Eyes by Grace MesaOutro: Never Ending Soul Groove by Mattijs MullerSupport the showThanks for listening! A new episode drops every Friday. Like, share, subscribe, and/or sponsor to help support the continuation of the show. You can find us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and all your favorite podcast players.

If there is ONE thing that most people can agree on, it's quality education for all. And Arizona seems to always be in the news when it comes to our education system. Lloyd Hopkins is an author, philanthropist and organizational leader with extensive experience in community and nonprofit work. He has worked in and around education for 18 years. He graduated from Arizona State University with his degree in Nonprofit Management and Leadership and took his passion for ensuring quality education for all to launch the teacher recruitment and retention program, Million Dollar Teacher Project. In 2023 he was recognized as one of Phoenix's Most Admired Leaders by the Phoenix Business Journal and nominated to the Governor of Arizona's Educator Retention Taskforce.  For more information on the Million Dollar Teacher Project visit https://mdtproject.org/ You can also find them on social media @mdtproject and they have their own podcast called The Teachers Lounge Project  Calendar of Events 12th Annual Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championship  Happening Nov 4th at WestWorld, come and see some of the best in the Polo world compete right here in our backyard. Tickets and tables are still on sale. Bring out fancy hats and dress to impress as the fashion show is just as good as the match on the grass.  Canal ConvergenceHappening Nov 4-13 on the waterfront in Old Town. This FREE event is such a great night of fun. One-of-a-kind art pours into our city each year for one week only. This year's theme is the Power of Play in Art. = Old Town Farmers MarketThe market is in its 14th year and features more than 100 local growers and specialty food producers. October 7th - April 29th: 8am-1pm SUBSCRIBE on your Favorite podcast listening app. Find us on IG & FB at Scottsdale Vibes Podcast or check us out on scottsdale vibes dot media. And don't forget that we are now the proud owners of Scottsdale City Lifestyle magazine where you can read about even more of your favorite community.   

If there is ONE thing that most people can agree on, it's quality education for all. And Arizona seems to always be in the news when it comes to our education system. Lloyd Hopkins is an author, philanthropist and organizational leader with extensive experience in community and nonprofit work. He has worked in and around education for 18 years. He graduated from Arizona State University with his degree in Nonprofit Management and Leadership and took his passion for ensuring quality education for all to launch the teacher recruitment and retention program, Million Dollar Teacher Project. In 2023 he was recognized as one of Phoenix's Most Admired Leaders by the Phoenix Business Journal and nominated to the Governor of Arizona's Educator Retention Taskforce.  For more information on the Million Dollar Teacher Project visit https://mdtproject.org/ You can also find them on social media @mdtproject and they have their own podcast called The Teachers Lounge Project  Calendar of Events 12th Annual Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championship  Happening Nov 4th at WestWorld, come and see some of the best in the Polo world compete right here in our backyard. Tickets and tables are still on sale. Bring out fancy hats and dress to impress as the fashion show is just as good as the match on the grass.  Canal ConvergenceHappening Nov 4-13 on the waterfront in Old Town. This FREE event is such a great night of fun. One-of-a-kind art pours into our city each year for one week only. This year's theme is the Power of Play in Art. = Old Town Farmers MarketThe market is in its 14th year and features more than 100 local growers and specialty food producers. October 7th - April 29th: 8am-1pm SUBSCRIBE on your Favorite podcast listening app. Find us on IG & FB at Scottsdale Vibes Podcast or check us out on scottsdale vibes dot media. And don't forget that we are now the proud owners of Scottsdale City Lifestyle magazine where you can read about even more of your favorite community.   

In this 3rd season of the Amplify podcast - powered by AAM, we're diving deep into accounting industry trends and how firms can maximize their growth as they plan for the future. In this episode, host Mike Jones, Managing Partner of Resound - a brand consultancy - talks with 15 MORE attendees of AAM Summit 2023 about their take on the state of the accounting industry. Each micro-interview dives into an aspect of the accounting industry - from digital marketing to upcoming trends to key challenges facing accounting firms. You don't want to miss this special episode. About the Guests: Becca McGovern, Marketing Manager at Johnson Lambert, LLP Laura Metz, Senior Growth Manager at HCVT Margo Andersen, Marketing Director at Larson & Company PC Danny Estrada, Vice President of Consulting at Rare Karma Judy Bodenhamer, Founder & Managing Director at Client Experience Group Lily Morris, Internal Communications Specialist at Johnson Lambert, LLP Travis Bradshaw, Director, Software & Services Marketing at Armanino Jerilyn Dressler, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Your Part-Time Controller Carrie Steffen, Co-Founder and President at The Whetstone Group Chris Camara, Managing Editor at The Growth Partnership Holly Subervi, Head of Brand at Armanino Katie Cohodes, Marketing Manager at Armanino Edward Warren, Senior Channel Marketing Manager at Sage Jeremy Shen, CMO at YHB Abby Morrow, Marketing Pursuit Coordinator at YHB   About Your Host: Mike Jones Managing Partner, Resound Remarkable brands require authenticity and a die-hard commitment to values & purpose. Mike passionately preaches these beliefs as author of the book, You Are Remarkable: How To Unlock Your Authentic Brand To Win Loyal Customers as well as two podcasts he hosts and produces: Resoundcast and the Remarkabrand Podcast. He works directly with clients to unlock their remarkable brands through his award-winning brand consultancy, Resound - established in 2009. (He also founded his own apparel brand devoted to American political history, called Taftly. But that's a whole other story.) He has supported the Arizona entrepreneurial community through his co-directorship of Phoenix Startup Week, co-founding the startup-supporting non-profit Thrive PHX, and serving on the boards of Conscious Capitalism Arizona and The Center for Habilitation. In recognition of the work he's done, this Arizona native has been named one of the state's top business leaders under the age of 40 by the Phoenix Business Journal as well as a 35-Under-35 entrepreneurial award from the Arizona Republic. He lives in the very sunny vale of Mesa, AZ with his wife and three kids. If you want to connect, LinkedIn's usually where you'll find him – @remarkamike.  

In this 3rd season of the Amplify podcast - powered by AAM, we're diving deep into accounting industry trends and how firms can maximize their growth as they plan for the future. In this episode, host Mike Jones, Managing Partner of Resound - a brand consultancy - talks with 13 attendees of AAM Summit 2023 about their take on the state of the accounting industry. Each micro-interview dives into an aspect of the accounting industry - from digital marketing to upcoming trends to key challenges facing accounting firms. You don't want to miss this special episode. About the Guests: Emily Ackerman, Director of Business Development at Lane Gorman Trubitt, LLC Kami Minor, Director of Marketing & Communications at Anglin Reichmann Armstrong, PC Ashton Adair, Marketing Manager at Whitley Penn Tyler Cuda, Digital Marketing Manager, Sassetti Jeshanah Fox, Marketing Director at Brown Schultz Sheridan & Fritz Anna Clyburn, Digital Marketing Specialist at Brown Edwards Jack Kolmansberger, CGO at Herbein + Company Josh Woods, Senior Marketing Manager at Lane Gorman Trubitt Amy Delaney, Director Of Marketing And Business Development at Kernutt Stokes Tenley Damrow, Director, Alliance Marketing Leader at RSM US LLP Becky Livingston, President and CEO at Penheel Marketing  Chuck Summers, Director of Practice Growth at MCM CPAs & Advisors Marti Rison, Creative Marketing and Communications Manager at Mize CPAs   About Your Host: Mike Jones Managing Partner, Resound Remarkable brands require authenticity and a die-hard commitment to values & purpose. Mike passionately preaches these beliefs as author of the book, You Are Remarkable: How To Unlock Your Authentic Brand To Win Loyal Customers as well as two podcasts he hosts and produces: Resoundcast and the Remarkabrand Podcast. He works directly with clients to unlock their remarkable brands through his award-winning brand consultancy, Resound - established in 2009. (He also founded his own apparel brand devoted to American political history, called Taftly. But that's a whole other story.) He has supported the Arizona entrepreneurial community through his co-directorship of Phoenix Startup Week, co-founding the startup-supporting non-profit Thrive PHX, and serving on the boards of Conscious Capitalism Arizona and The Center for Habilitation. In recognition of the work he's done, this Arizona native has been named one of the state's top business leaders under the age of 40 by the Phoenix Business Journal as well as a 35-Under-35 entrepreneurial award from the Arizona Republic. Mike lives in the very sunny vale of Mesa, AZ with his wife and three kids. If you want to connect, LinkedIn's usually where you'll find him – @remarkamike.

In the latest season of the Amplify podcast - powered by AAM, we're diving deep into the various industry trends in accounting firm growth. In this episode, host Mike Jones, Managing Partner of Resound - a brand consultancy - talks with Heather Esposito, Director Learning, Development and Colleague Engagement at BPM. Their discussion centers on the power of showing people they matter in accounting firms. Listen in. This is a must-not-miss episode!  About Our Guest Heather Esposito  Director Learning, Development and Colleague Engagement, BPM Heather Esposito is a Director of Learning, Development, and Colleague Engagement at BPM, working remotely. She has twenty-five years of experience in the industry and leads the Learning and Development program for BPM. Heather has worked as a coach with a variety of leaders, seeking to provide transformative change and accelerating their leadership effectiveness. Her approach centers around deep self-exploration to gain insights and self-awareness for leaders, moving them forward in their growth and development. For the last six years, Heather has focused much of her work around the neuroscience of quality conversations, growth mindset, psychological safety, and building a culture of coaching. She backs this up with over 2500 hours of coaching experience with the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Heather holds several degrees, including a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, a Masters in Special Education, and a Masters in Human Resource and Leadership Development. Heather lives in New Orleans with her husband and three children, and enjoys sipping on iced coffee while relaxing with a good book, listening to podcasts, or being creative. About Your Host: Mike Jones Managing Partner, Resound Remarkable brands require authenticity and a die-hard commitment to values & purpose. Mike passionately preaches these beliefs as author of the book, You Are Remarkable: How To Unlock Your Authentic Brand To Win Loyal Customers as well as two podcasts he hosts and produces: Resoundcast and the Remarkabrand Podcast. He works directly with clients to unlock their remarkable brands through his award-winning brand consultancy, Resound - established in 2009. (He also founded his own apparel brand devoted to American political history, called Taftly. But that's a whole other story.) He has supported the Arizona entrepreneurial community through his co-directorship of Phoenix Startup Week, co-founding the startup-supporting non-profit Thrive PHX, and serving on the boards of Conscious Capitalism Arizona and The Center for Habilitation. In recognition of the work he's done, this Arizona native has been named one of the state's top business leaders under the age of 40 by the Phoenix Business Journal as well as a 35-Under-35 entrepreneurial award from the Arizona Republic. Mike lives in the very sunny vale of Mesa, AZ with his wife and three kids. If you want to connect, LinkedIn's usually where you'll find him – @remarkamike.

Hola Amigas! Stephanie Vasquez is an Arizona State University graduate, Latina business leader, serial entrepreneur, and business coach. Stephanie's entrepreneurial journey boasts several achievements including developing her non-profit organization @‌azellaorg from concept to commercialization, fifteen years of business at Fair Trade Cafe, and advocating for the local Phoenix community. Her business success has earned her and her businesses recognition from Forbes, Los Suns, Cox, The New Times, Phoenix Business Journal, Phoenix Rising, City of Phoenix, Know Phoenix, and more. Stephanie has also taught and mentored with ASU as a part of ASU Prepped, a food entrepreneurial program. In this Episode we talk about: Growing a successful business and having a connected community Facing Business/Personal decision making Mindset Investing in personal development If today's episode resonated with you, please share your favorite takeaways by taking a screenshot of this episode and tagging us on Instagram! P.S. Want a chance to win a MM23 ticket? Register for my free masterclass, How to Get Out of Your Own Way and Take Massive Action, that's happening on Thursday, October 5th at 7:30pm CT/ 5:30pm PT. Register for the masterclass Here. Also, Join us for our biggest event of the year, Mujerón Movement 2023, on October 28th in Scottsdale, AZ! Save your seat HERE! We can't wait to celebrate with you in person! Connect with us! Follow Stephanie: Instagram: @stephanie_azftc @azellaorg @azmujeresmercado @amorcollectiveaz Follow Mujeron Movement: Instagram: @thesoniaalejandra @mujeronmovement

For 20+ years, Sergei Guk has been on the front lines of the restoration industry providing services for buildings damaged by disaster and accident. As the CEO of RestorationHQ, he has crafted expertise through both on the job experience and a litany of professional certifications including IICRC, The Asbestos Institute, the EPA, and BioCleaning Services of America, Inc., among others. With features on Channel 5 News in Phoenix, SHOPTALK360, the Phoenix Business Journal, Tycoons of Small Biz Podcast, The Unstoppable Podcast, and achieving the #1 spot in the Commercial Restoration Contractor category Ranking Arizona - The Best of Arizona Business 2022 & 2023, Sergei and RestorationHQ are the leading voice in their field. He continues to educate the community by regularly serving as a guest speaker and panelist at industry events in Phoenix & Tucson including, but not limited to, the Arizona Society for Healthcare Engineering (AZSHE), Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM), Building Owners and Managers (BOMA), International Facility Managers Association (IFMA), and MARC Community Resources, Inc.Website: https://restorationhq.us/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergeiguk/Mac and Bleu is the hot new podcast dedicated to all things related to building Arizona. Topics discussed range from construction, economic development, supply chain, and market segments.Mac & Bleu also includes diversity in construction, local politics affecting construction, women in construction, construction technology, and more.The host JJ Levenske of Bleuwave have their finger on the pulse of the people building Arizona.The show brings in the brightest minds in their perspective positions and industries and JJ has the unique ability to touch on the subject matter that you want to hear.If you want to know who's building Arizona, tune in and subscribe to Mac and Bleu today!___________________________________________________________________________________JJ Levenske is a seasoned construction executive with over 30 years of experience in the commercial and industrial sectors.From pre-construction services to complex quality controls and close-outs, he brings a commitment to delivering the highest levels of professionalism and customer service.

What if the gap between where you are and where you want to be doesn't really exist? That's just one of the key realizations Carla Rotering learned in her coaching with Steve Hardison. In this very special conversation with host Meredith Bell, Carla shares limiting beliefs that she became aware of and learned to release.Carla first met Steve when they were both students at the University of Santa Monica. She takes us behind the scenes in his selection of “My Amy Project” and how that impacted Carla's relationship with her own adult children. She talks about some of the most impactful moments when Steve drew her attention to specific behaviors that were undermining her ability to show up as her best self. The beautiful 4-word statement that she shares at the end of this conversation is one that we can all adopt and live by. In fact, she said she “stole” it from Steve to remind herself that she didn't need to see him as more enlightened or superior. She could BE “living love” just as he is.About the Guest: Dr. Carla Rotering, a Pulmonary and Critical Care physician, is a leader, mentor and coach who is deeply committed to people–to their growth, upliftment, resilience and purpose as they strive toward the optimum expression of themselves in their professional and personal lives. She supports mastery for individuals and organizations by employing both experiential and introspective processes. Carla delivers her guidance and expertise with full-hearted enthusiasm, caring, wisdom and humor. Her life experience and training have offered her a deep appreciation for the role of lifelong learning, coaching and mentoring as it contributes to evolving human potential and our shared ability to expand and grow toward collaboration, excellence and integrity. Carla is also the founder, consultant, and executive coach at Boxcar International and at drcarlarotering.com. She is the co-founder of Our Future Selves retreat series and Everything Under the Sun retreat series. She is the co-author of Language of Caring Guide for Physicians: Communication Essentials for Patient Centered Care and the recipient of the Phoenix Business Journal's HealthCare Heroes Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019.Offerings:> Individual and organizational Coaching and Self-Mastery > Destination Retreats and Workshops > Speaking, Keynote addresses> Leadership development and Mentorship> Individual and Organizational Attentive Communication Skills Traininghttps://www.drcarlarotering.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-rotering-a3a82a3/About the Host: Meredith Bell is the Co-founder and President of Grow Strong Leaders. Her company publishes software tools and books that help people build strong relationships at work and at home.Meredith is an expert in leader and team communications, the author of three books, and the host of the Grow Strong Leaders Podcast. She co-authored her latest books, Connect with Your Team: Mastering the Top 10 Communication Skills, and Peer Coaching Made Simple, with her business partner, Dr. Dennis Coates. In them, Meredith and Denny provide how-to guides for improving communication skills and serving as a peer coach to someone else. Meredith is also The Heart-centered Connector. One of her favorite ways of BEING in the world is to introduce people who can benefit from knowing each other. https://growstrongleaders.com/

Founding Partner + Jason Barclay Morris is a graduate of the University of Arizona, College of Law, and a founding partner at the law firm of Withey Morris Baugh, PLC. His past experience includes work as a congressional staff member, and as partner with the Land Use Section for a major Phoenix law firm.Mr. Morris's practice is exclusively in land use, planning and zoning and government relations in Arizona, as well as the Southwest region. His client list includes significant development in every asset class and representation in some of the state's most high-profile land use cases. His clientele includes national homebuilders, multi-family developers, master plan developers, landowners, family offices and Fortune 100 companies. Mr. Morris has also successfully litigated land use cases on behalf of property owners against Arizona municipalities.He served as Chair of the City of Phoenix License Appeals Board and was the District 3 representative to the Maricopa County Transportation Advisory Board. He was also appointed by the Mayor to serve on the City of Phoenix Development Advisory Board. Mr. Morris was past-chair of Valley Partnership's State Legislative Committee. In that capacity, he worked extensively on the Growing Smarter Legislation as well as opposing the Citizen's Growth Management Initiative. He also served as an Ad Hoc Committee-member advising on the combination of the Planning & Development Services Departments at the City of Phoenix. Jason's other honors include recognition as an outstanding community leader by the Phoenix Business Journal's “40 under 40” Issue, and he was honored as one of the “Best of the Bar” by the Arizona Business Journal.Mr. Morris is currently on the Board of Trustees for The University of Denver Sturm College of Law Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute. Additional outside boards and activities include Valley Leadership, Urban Land Institute, ASU Real Estate Council, and the Arizona Town Hall. He also served as President of the Arizona Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs and is a member of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation Board of Trustees.Website: www.wmbattorneys.com/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jason-barclay-morris-6b687513/Adam Baugh is a Partner at Withey Morris Baugh.LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/adam-baugh/Facebook: www.facebook.com/adam.baugh.10Mac and Bleu is the hot new podcast dedicated to all things related to building Arizona. Topics discussed range from construction, economic development, supply chain, and market segments.Mac & Bleu also includes diversity in construction, local politics affecting construction, women in construction, construction technology, and more.The host JJ Levenske of Bleuwave have their finger on the pulse of the people building Arizona.The show brings in the brightest minds in their perspective positions and industries and JJ has the unique ability to touch on the subject matter that you want to hear.If you want to know who's building Arizona, tune in and subscribe to Mac and Bleu today!___________________________________________________________________________________JJ Levenske is a seasoned construction executive with over 30 years of experience in the commercial and industrial sectors.From pre-construction services to complex quality controls and close-outs, he brings a commitment to delivering the highest levels of professionalism and customer service.

Sintra Hoffman is the President and Chief Executive Officer of WESTMARC, representing the West Valley of Metro Phoenix where she has the pleasure of working with 15 communities, over 3,000 square miles and home to 1.8 million residents. With 25 years of experience in federal, state, local and non-profit leadership, Sintra is a natural convener, bringing key stakeholders together to advance the region's economic vitality and improve the quality of life for her community. She previously served as Assistant Division Director for the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) leading the Office of Public Affairs to build and sustain relationships in Arizona's cities, towns, counties, tribes and business community and support infrastructure investments statewide. Prior to her time at ADOT, she spent 10 years with the City of Surprise, serving as the Director of Intergovernmental Relations and Deputy City Manager, focusing on policy development and economic sustainability for the community.Sintra serves on several boards to focus on improving the quality of life and economic vitality in the West Valley and statewide:Arizona Highway Users Group, Vice PresidentAmerican Business Immigration Coalition Advisory Board Estrella Mountain Community College - President's Community Advisory CouncilGlendale Community College – President's Community Advisory Council Grand Canyon University – Honors College Advisory Board Interstate 11 Corridor Coalition Board of DirectorsNew Pathways for Youth Advisory Board Phoenix Children's Hospital West Valley Foundation Board The Vista - Center for the Arts Advisory Board White Tank Mountains Conservancy Board of Directors Sintra was recognized by the Phoenix Business Journal as a Most Admired Leader in 2023 and one of 25 Outstanding Women in Business in 2022. Previously Arizona Business Magazine recognized her as one of the Most Influential Women in 2016. In 2019 she was recognized by Estrella Mountain Community College as their Education Hero and also received BMO Bank's Women Who Lead award. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Master's of Administration in Public Administration. She spends her leisure time traveling the globe, hiking, staying active and of course, networking and building new relationships! Website: www.westmarc.orgFacebook: facebook.com/WESTMARCAZTwitter: twitter.com/WESTMARCLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/westmarcInstagram: instagram.com/westmarc_azMac and Bleu is the hot new podcast dedicated to all things related to building Arizona. Topics discussed range from construction, economic development, supply chain, and market segments.Mac & Bleu also includes diversity in construction, local politics affecting construction, women in construction, construction technology, and more.The host JJ Levenske of Bleuwave have their finger on the pulse of the people building Arizona.The show brings in the brightest minds in their perspective positions and industries and JJ has the unique ability to touch on the subject matter that you want to hear.If you want to know who's building Arizona, tune in and subscribe to Mac and Bleu today!___________________________________________________________________________________JJ Levenske is a seasoned construction executive with over 30 years of experience in the commercial and industrial sectors.From pre-construction services to complex quality controls and close-outs, he brings a commitment to delivering the highest levels of professionalism and customer service.

Sheila Kloefkorn is the Founder and President of KEO Marketing, a top B2B marketing agency that helps Fortune 1000 companies and mid-market businesses in 100+ countries scale faster by executing well-rounded, goal-oriented marketing plans.Their team of experienced specialists includes email marketers, digital advertisers, social media managers, and copywriters, and they've won multiple accolades, including several Stevie American Business Awards for Marketing Campaign of the Year, for their outstanding work.For 25+ years, Sheila has helped companies in many industries prosper through her work in marketing.She began her career in the 1990s at a small marketing firm in New York City, where she assisted in its expansion into the biggest youth marketing firm globally. She takes pride in having been among the first online advertisers and witnessing the expansion of the digital marketing and advertising sector as a whole.Sheila has also received countless honors, most recently being recognized as one of In Business Magazine Phoenix's 2022 Women of Achievement and the Phoenix Business Journal's Top 10 Business Leaders of the Year and Top 25 Dynamic Women in Business.More Info: KEO MarketingSponsors: Master Your Podcast Course: MasterYourSwagFree Coaching Session: Master Leadership 360 CoachingSupport Our Show: Click HereLily's Story: My Trust ManifestoSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/masterleadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Between balancing careers, relationships, health, hobbies, spirituality and more, many people – particularly high-achievers – feel that they do not have enough time to do everything they'd like to do. In addition to creating stress, this feeling of being pulled in multiple directions can prevent us from reaching our full potential and unleashing greatness in ourselves and others. Therefore, it's crucial to get clear on your most important priorities and keep them at the center of your daily routine. Bob Mulhern, our guest in Episode 157 of The MINDSet Game® podcast, understands the challenges that come with juggling many different obligations. In addition to being the father of nine children, Bob is a senior managing director for Colliers Arizona, where he leads a $50 million commercial real estate brokerage operation for over 120 professionals, and the cofounder of Great Hearts Arizona, a charter school management organization that operates 24 schools and educates over 15,000 students between kindergarten and 12th grade. He is a past recipient of the Phoenix Business Journal's “Arizona's Most Admired Leaders” recognition, NAIOP Arizona's Lifetime Achievement Award, and is currently recognized as an Arizona State University 100 Business Leader. In this week's episode, Bob discusses the following: The pitfalls of prioritizing the most urgent things in your life rather than the most important How keeping your non-negotiable priorities at the center of your to-do list each day – even if that requires you to decline certain opportunities – can help you shift to viewing time as an abundant, rather than scarce, resource The value of focusing on progress rather than perfection, and striving to do your best rather than be the best Why it's important to try to not only attract people and opportunities that are in alignment with your higher purpose, but also repel those that are not To learn more about Bob or connect with him, find him on LinkedIn. To subscribe to The MINDset Game, visit www.TheMINDsetGame.com.  

Alison Stine is the Founder of Stine Wealth Management located in Scottsdale, AZ. Alison has been a Financial Advisor for over a decade and holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification. She was named a 2022 Most Admired Leader by the Phoenix Business Journal and 2023 100 Women to KNOW in America by The KNOW Women. Alison loves to give back and is very involved in the community. In this episode we talk about: [2:05] How Alison ended up going out on her own as a Financial Planner [6:35] How Alison found the clients she wants to work with [13:00] How to think about investing your money [18:15] Find a mentor who can help you [22:35] Connect with Alison Connect with Alison: www.stinewealthmanagement.com Facebook @stinewealthmanagement Connect with Sara Mayer: Instagram @saramayerconsulting Facebook @saracmayerconsulting LinkedIn @saramayerconsulting

Episode page with video, transcript, and more My guest for Episode #211 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Ellen Poole, author of the new book ‘Network' is Not a Verb. Ellen teaches people at all levels of their careers effective strategies to build networks and nurture relationships for professional success. After graduating from the George Washington University Law School, she became the fourth woman in U.S. history to be chosen as CEO of a state bankers association and was named by the Phoenix Business Journal as one of its ten most influential people under 40. More recently, Poole spent almost 15 years as a multi-state government relations executive for Fortune 100 company USAA, where she built a professional network spanning the country. In this episode, Ellen shares her favorite mistake story about the time she blew a job interview by giving a “smart-ass” answer. Was it a blessing in disguise because the organization might not have been a fit. Does the need to be authentic trump all else? What did she learn about being more customer focused, in interviewing and in general? Questions and Topics: Was this mistake a blessing in disguise in terms of fit? What did you learn? “Don't be a smartass in job interviews…” Being more customer focused? Did anyone ever bring up that interview again? What are some common mistakes people make in the name of networking? Tell us about the book — ‘Network' is Not a Verb. There's an implied mistake… to think network is a verb… tell us about that… LinkedIn as a networking tool?? Sales platform? “How to solve the problems of everyone you come into contact with…” Use discount code MARKGRABAN on her website --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/favorite-mistake/support

“The psychology of consumer loyalty is impacting all of us.” – Stefanie Francis Stefanie Francis is the Founder of Hootology, a marketing research firm that fully utilizes a tech-forward approach to consumer behavior and analytics. Hootlogy is founded on her passion for quantitative analytics, anthropology, innovation, art, and the creative process. She champions supplier diversity and is an advocate for equality inside and outside the workplace. Stefanie is also an Adjunct Professor at NYU SPS Tisch Institute for Sports Management, Media, and Business. She is an award-winning speaker, a member of Valley Leadership, and has been recognized as one of the Phoenix Business Journal's ‘Forty Under 40.' In this episode, Stefanie shares the significance of considering consumer psychology when making an intelligent business decision. She shares how Hootology got started and what the name stands for. She explains how her company stands out among other research firms, particularly regarding the kind of data analytics they apply. She discusses the percentage of supplier diversity awareness in the industry. Stefanie also describes what large companies are missing by ignoring the trending data on supplier diversity. This week on Breaking Barriers: How the idea of Hootology started. The importance of market research for large companies. Why psychology is at the root of consumer research. Why not doing your market research is like throwing expensive darts with a blindfold. What Stefanie enjoys about being a professor for university students. What the Hoot in Hootology stands for. What separates Hootology from other research firms. The qualities of a high-level research firm that clients should look for. Why awareness of supplier diversity being low isn't as bad as it seems. What Stefanie would say to companies who won't prioritize supplier diversity. Connect with Stefanie Francis: Hootology Phone: (480) 685-0639 This podcast is brought to you by Hire Ground Hire Ground is a technology company whose mission is to bridge the wealth gap through access to procurement opportunities. Hire Ground is making the enterprise ecosystem more viable, profitable, and competitive by clearing the path for minority-led, women-led, LGBT-led, and veteran-led small businesses to contribute to the global economy as suppliers to enterprise organizations. For more information on getting started please visit us @ hireground.io today! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | GooglePlay | Stitcher | Spotify Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and join us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

On this week's episode, Jamison Manwaring, co-founder and CEO of Neighborhood Ventures, shares about building out his real estate investment firm and his own crowd funding platform.  If you're interested in raising from non-accredited investors or how crowdfunding could boost your business, there will be many valuable takeaways. After years as a tech analyst, Jamison realized that everyone had the same information on Wall Street and it was just a matter of trying to outsmart each other. Whereas with real estate, he could gain an advantage. He also did not like the volatility of the stock market and preferred the stability of holding real estate long term. In 2020 he was selected as Phoenix Business Journal's 40 under 40. Before Neighborhood Ventures, he served as the Vice President of Investor Relations at LifeLock and assisted the company in its successful sale to Symantec in February of 2017. Before LifeLock, Jamison was a technology analyst at Goldman Sachs where he participated in over a dozen software IPOs including Tableau, Alarm.com, and LifeLock. Jamison graduated from the University of Utah with a BS in Finance. He began his foray into real estate by purchasing a 10 family in Idaho with his father's help, a residential broker in the area. He was hooked. He has gone on to acquire 15 properties in Arizona with his partner, with all of them being sourced off market. For their first deal together, as an experiment, they tried to raise the money all online without using any of their connections. Through a lot of Google ad words and follow up meetings, they have built a huge following. One note is that if you do want to leverage crowdfunding, please consult with an attorney. As Jamison will share, this is a highly regulated space so proper filings and disclosures are essential. What I really like about Jamison's story is how he views his platform as a way for everyday investors to get access to direct real estate investing. You can find out more about Jamison at: https://neighborhood.ventures/ or listen to his podcast at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kiss-my-assets/id1477552013.  You can connect with him at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamison-manwaring-a8188625/.

Sheila Kloefkorn, the multi-award-winning marketing thought leader and Founder of KEO Marketing, joins me on Tech Talks Daily.  Sheila's B2B marketing agency has been instrumental in helping Fortune 1000 companies and mid-market businesses in 100+ countries scale faster by executing well-rounded, goal-oriented marketing plans. In today's episode, Sheila shares her insights on common marketing mistakes companies make and offers actionable marketing tips that entrepreneurs can apply to increase the profits and value of their businesses. Sheila also discusses how leveraging a fractional CMO can lead to faster and more economical business growth. As a marketing visionary, Sheila explores the future of blockchain in the realm of marketing and advertising. She emphasizes the potential of this groundbreaking technology to revolutionize the industry and shares her predictions on how blockchain will shape advertising in the coming years. With over 25 years of experience in the marketing industry, Sheila began her career in New York City at a small marketing firm, which she helped expand into the largest youth marketing firm in the world. As one of the first online advertisers, Sheila has witnessed the rapid evolution of the digital marketing and advertising sector.  Her numerous accolades include In Business Magazine Phoenix's 2022 Women of Achievement, Phoenix Business Journal's Top 10 Business Leaders of the Year, and Top 25 Dynamic Women in Business. Don't miss this enlightening conversation with Sheila Kloefkorn on Tech Talks Daily, where she shares valuable insights and expert advice on marketing strategies, business growth, and the future of blockchain in advertising.

Check out the latest ON THE DELO PODCAST ! Follow me on YOUTUBE @iamthedelo and IG @iamthedelo Thank you for listening. Love to all ! Check out Susie at Knifeandforkmedia.com Founder, Susie Timm grew up in the land of cow, otherwise known as Wisconsin. In 1992 she moved to the Valley of the Sun and graduated from high school in Scottsdale and is a proud alumni of Arizona State University with her Bachelor's of Arts degree in Political Science.. Interestingly enough, she started a booming career as a banker in 2000 and was named the youngest Bank President in Arizona at the age of 27. Susie worked in that industry until it became “un-fun” in 2009. She found her true passion in the food industry mid-2009 when she co-founded a food events company. That business morphed into the full service PR agency we are today! Susie and her team manage a marketing portfolio of clients ranging in size and scope from food to entertainment to accounting. With over fifteen years of experience, her proven marketing, media and sales models have helped grow small and medium-sized companies all over Arizona and the United States. Susie won numerous achievement awards for her sales skills during her years as a corporate warrior. Additionally, she has been honored as a member of the Phoenix Business Journal's “40 under 40,” and “Women Leaders in Business,” the Phoenix New Times' “100 Tastemakers in Phoenix,” So Scottsdale's “24 Powerful Leaders Under 40,” and as a national trendspotter for the Specialty Food Association's Fancy Food Shows. Susie is a proud graduate of Scottsdale Leadership, Class 23. Susie has been a recurring featured guest on many local TV stations for her passionate take on gourmet food trends. Susie believes strongly in community stewardship and to that end, she has served as a board member with Scottsdale Leadership, the Leadership Council of Careers in Culinary Arts (C-Cap AZ), and has served three times as the Co-Chair of Taste of the Nation Arizona, an event that raises important funds to feed hungry kids in Arizona. For fun, Susie writes (a lot!), cooks, reads cooking magazines, sits in the Jacuzzi and spends too much time at Scottsdale Fashion Square. Susie is a proud patriot, a strong advocate of capitalism and she loves to debate politics with anyone who will listen.